Best way to get Skype on older TV

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timmmay

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#233693 28-Apr-2018 08:14

We have a good 55" 1080p LCD Samsung TV, but it's old enough that it's no longer supported and doesn't get apps, and doesn't have a camera. What's the best way to add Skype to an older TV?

I'd like to run Skype on the TV. Here are my requirements:

I don't want to put in a full computer as it's overkill.
I don't want to replace the TV.
I have a R.Pi2, but would probably err towards buying a dedicated device.
For bonus points, it would be nice to use the home theater system for audio, through my receiver. WiFi or ethernet, I have both available, WiFi is easier.

Can anyone recommend a device? Happy with ebay type stuff so long as it's pretty reliable. I know a few years ago they were only ok.

Andib

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#2003894 28-Apr-2018 08:26

Easiest option would be to get an Xbox with a connect camera although that's not exactly a cheap option just for skype.

timmmay

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#2003902 28-Apr-2018 08:40

I have a PS3 and I think it has a camera for some game, but I don't like it much.

Are dedicated devices available? I will search, but looking for recommendations.

SATTV

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#2003913 28-Apr-2018 09:07

I was looking for a dedicated device a few years ago for a client and could not find one.

The problem with an appliance that you have already eluded to is the wile it may work now it might not work next week if Microsoft decide to no longer support it, if I recall TV support was removed very quickly.

You could get an ex lease NUC or USFF computer to run skype.

John

I know enough to be dangerous

grolschie

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#2004070 28-Apr-2018 13:37

I made the mistake of buying a Panasonic Skype camera for my Panasonic smart TV, only to have Microsoft kill of the TV's built-in Skype app.

Logitech previously made a product called "TV Cam HD" which just plugged into any HDMI port and had the Skype client built-in. Unfortunately, Microsoft killed that off also.

Skype used to be on plenty of devices, but now not so much.

JimmyH

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#2004113 28-Apr-2018 14:34

You may have to bite the bullet and go with a PC anyway.

It's the most straightforward way of doing what you want, and the least likely to be killed off by subsequent Microsoft policy changes.

As others have observed, a more than adequate refurbished small-form factor machine isn't terribly expensive.

(Plus it will let you do more on the telly - Lightbox, Netflix etc if you want to later later, which is a bonus).

timmmay

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#2004115 28-Apr-2018 14:39

We decided it was too much hassle, we'll keep using a laptop. Wanted to use the tv as it's on the wall and our toddler can't reach it, he grabs the laptop when we Skype.

Already have a Roku and raspberry pi.

gbwelly

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#2004133 28-Apr-2018 15:08

Could try an old Android phone Velcro'd atop the TV with a MHL cable to allow you to do HDMI out. Then use Skype on the phone.