If you're a Mac-using fan of Skype you'll probably be quite excited about version 2.8 beta of their ubiquitous Voice over IP application. Bringing in a raft of new features, the beta includes the ability to screenshare between machines - a feature not currently available in the Windows version of the client, bucking the trend of features appearing in the Windows client first.

Whilst chatting with Skype out here in San Francisco in the build up to Macworld Expo, they've also announced a new partnership with WiFi specialists Boingo for 'Skype Access'. The feature allows Skype customers to use Boingo hotspots without a Boingo account, and use their Skype credit to pay by the minute for the WiFi access ($0.19 per minute on top of the cost of the call).

Other new features in the Beta include the quick-adding of contacts, contact notes, larger profile photos and chat priorities to help you organise instant-messages. The beta is available now from the Skype website.