5 Best Ways to Fix Skype Custom Video Background Not Showing

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a surge in video calls. While many enjoy working from home, for some it’s a nightmare due to their background. Zoom and Microsoft Teams offer the ability to change the background, and now Skype has followed suit. However, if you can’t do that, we’ll explain how to fix the issue of custom backgrounds not working in Skype.

If you’re anxious about your background on a Skype video call, you’re not alone. People often worry more about their background than the actual call due to judgmental people. Luckily, Skype offers virtual backgrounds that replace your original background with an image of your choice. The software automatically detects your body and places it in front of the background for a natural look. Here are some ways to fix video backgrounds that aren’t working on Skype.

1. Restart Computer

Tend to avoid shutting down your PC? It could be the reason you can’t see the custom video background on Skype. Your app may not be updated and, because your PC hasn’t been restarted in a while, the custom background feature isn’t visible. Save your work and reboot your computer.

2. Update Skype

The custom background feature is available in Skype versions 8.59.0.77 and above. To check your current Skype version, open the Skype app and click on the three-dot icon at the top, then select Help & feedback.

You will see the Skype version and Application version. If you are using an earlier version, you should update the Skype app.

3. Supported Operating System

We have sad news. Custom image backgrounds for video calling on Skype only work for computers. They are compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux. However, iOS and Android users will need to wait for this feature.

There’s more. Interestingly, the backgrounds do not work on Skype for Windows 10 (version 14) that is downloaded from the Microsoft Store. This version only offers the background blur feature. However, if you download Skype from its website, you can use the custom backgrounds.

If you’re excited to try the feature, download Skype from the given link. Select Skype for Windows in the drop-down box. It’s worth noting that you can have both versions of Skype on your Windows 10 system.

Your PC processor needs to support Advanced Vector Extensions 2 (AVX2) for background blur and custom backgrounds.

4. Sign Out

If you have a compatible operating system, try signing out of the Skype app to enable custom backgrounds. To do this, open the app and click the three-dot icon at the top. Choose Sign out and then log back in.

5. Correct Way to Use Custom Video Background in Skype

There are two ways to change the background: during a call or for all calls.

Tip: Use landscape orientation for background images to fill the entire screen. Avoid using portrait images.

Now let’s look at both methods.

Launch the supported Skype app on your computer.

Click on the profile picture or three-dot icon at the top and select Settings.

Step 3: Go to the Audio & Video tab. Find the Choose background effect option. Click Add image to add your custom background.

Tip: To remove custom background from the video call, click None.

Change Skype Video Background for Ongoing Call

When on a Skype call, simply hover your mouse over the video icon and choose background effect from the menu. For Skype on Windows 10, you can also enable the toggle next to Blur my background to hide it.

The Audio & video settings screen will open. Click on Add image under Choose background effect. Navigate to the folder containing your background and select it.

Note: Backgrounds should be saved on your computer. Do not import from the internet or cloud services such as OneDrive or Google Drive.

Title: The Importance of Saving Backgrounds Locally

In today’s digital age, it’s crucial to consider the significance of saving backgrounds locally. By choosing the right approach and understanding the benefits, we can optimize our experience. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

1. Accessibility: When someone saves backgrounds locally, they become readily available. If you’re in a location without internet access, you can still enjoy your favorite wallpapers.

2. Convenience: By following the practice of saving backgrounds locally, you no longer need to rely on an internet connection to change your wallpaper. It becomes a seamless process that enhances user experience.

3. Reliability: Saving backgrounds locally eliminates the risk of broken links or images disappearing from the internet. You have control over your wallpaper collection, and it will always be accessible.

4. Customization: By saving backgrounds locally, you can curate a personalized collection that reflects your style and preferences. It allows you to create a unique and visually appealing digital environment.

In conclusion, saving backgrounds locally provides numerous advantages, including accessibility, convenience, reliability, and customization. It is a simple yet effective way to enhance your digital experience. Take advantage of this practice and elevate your desktop or device to the next level.

Bonus Tip: Use Snapchat Filters in Skype

Similar to Zoom, you can add Snapchat filters to your videos on Skype. The steps are similar to Zoom – download the Snap Camera app, run it in the background, and change the default camera on Skype. Check our post on Snapchat filters in Zoom for the first two steps.

Once done, open Skype and go to Settings. Click on Audio & video. Then, select Snap Camera from the drop-down box above the video preview.

Cool Backgrounds for Skype Calls

We hope you were satisfied with the solutions mentioned above. Once you have the virtual background feature on Skype, check our collection of wallpapers that you can use as your background.

Next up: Improve your Skype experience with keyboard shortcuts. Check out the best keyboard shortcuts for Skype from the next link.