Today is a big day for Skype. Not only did the company announce its intent to acquire mobile video provider Qik, but they have also launched a new business version of Skype for Windows with group video calling. 

The feature is specifically designed for businesses who are shifting to an anytime/anywhere workplace model to increase employee productivity and collaboration, a spokesperson for the company tells WebProNews. 

"With Group Video Calling, we can offer business people an easy way to stay connected and collaborate face-to-face with multiple colleagues, partners or customers around the world," said David Gurlé, General Manager and Vice President of Skype’s Enterprise business unit. "The Business version of Skype is great for live meetings and it offers a compelling low-cost option compared to competing solutions that are often complicated, costly or difficult to deploy."

With Group Video Calling, users can connect with up to nine other callers for prices starting at $6.99 per month for a three to twelve month subscription (for those using Skype Manager). 

The release of Skype’s Group Video Calling for businesses follows a recent survey commissioned by the company showing the impact of video calling on the modern workplace. 68% of technology-empowered workers report video calling makes communication richer and more productive with colleagues, clients and suppliers, according to those findings. More details about that can be found here.