The standard set of features of the Skype messenger is limited. To expand the functionality, you will need to install additional applications for Skype. Programs can change the caller’s voice, distort the video image, add visual effects, record conversations. At the same time, the interlocutor does not realize that the audio recording of the conversation will be saved.
Splitcam
Splitcam is a free utility. It can be used for Skype. Programs like Splitcam work directly with the video stream, so their scope is not limited to the popular Skype messenger. In addition to the main features, the application allows you to decorate finished videos with vivid effects that will add dynamics and humor to the already captured material.
Functionality of the program:
Broadcasting from one webcam to several separate applications. Using this function, you can communicate with several users at the same time, conduct a conference, and broadcast video to various online services. Moreover, all these functions can be enabled at the same time.
Making video calls on Skype, the program can be used both to change the background, and to apply various effects to the face of the caller. Splitcam will distort the features, replace the face with another object from the extensive collection built into the application, apply the “curved mirror” effect.
Splitcam is a utility that can do three-dimensional processing of video images. Such functionality is rarely built into Skype programs. Changing the face begins by specifying the key points to snap the mask. After processing, the head of a person will be replaced by the head of an animal or cartoon character. The video displays not just a picture, but a three-dimensional model that completely repeats the user's movements.
Zoom (digital zoom of the selected screen area).
Splitcam - a demanding hardware program for Skype. Changing the face in real time is a resource-intensive task, so the resolution of the changed video stream can be both minimal and high. It only depends on the performance of the computer.
Additional features
In addition to Skype, the program works with most other modern instant messengers that support the exchange of video streams. As well as services such as Livestream, ICQ and YouTube. Working with already recorded video, connecting via IP remotely to cameras, and many other functions make the program popular and in demand.
Webcammax
Webcammax has a much smaller set of features when it comes to its free version. But the capabilities of this program intended for "Skype" can be easily expanded by purchasing the full version. Webcammax works directly with a webcam and is compatible not only with Skype messenger.
The following video effects are available to the user:
fog, reducing the clarity of the image and making it difficult to recognize faces;
inscriptions that can be applied to different parts of the screen;
2D masks that directly cover the user's face;
distortion of facial features.
FaceRig and CyberLink
The functionality of FaceRig designed for Skype is primarily aimed at changing the entire image. Instead of a person on the screen, a cartoon or video game character is displayed on a unique background. The replacement is performed in 3D mode, so the utility will not work for weak computers.
Another utility, CyberLink YouCam, can change and distort faces not only in video, but also in photos.
These programs, of course, have much less capabilities than those described previously. But the main advantage of low-functional tools is free of charge. For an expanded set of features you usually have to pay.
Skype does not provide any built-in utilities for distorting faces, so those people who want to play their friends or seek for some reason to remain anonymous will have to choose between low-functional and free software and programs with wide capabilities, but requiring a purchase.