Skype 7.16 for Windows adds media sharing toolbar, URL previews

Skype 7.16 for Windows launches today, and with it comes two practical new features: a media toolbar and URL previews.

The toolbar is a compact set of buttons next to the message window that let you easily share photos, files, video messages, contacts, and emoticons. Happily, the toolbar will minimize as you type so as not to be intrusive. It can be expanded anytime by clicking the paper clip menu.

Amusingly, the Skype team says "long, ugly links" are now a thing of the past thanks to the addition of URL previews. Familiar to most anyone who's used Facebook Messenger, they simply give you a brief look at what's behind a link, helping you decide if want to click it or not.

To grab the update, simply click the Help menu in Skype, then click Check for Updates.