If you're a Skype Premium subscriber, v5.2 for Mac has got something new for you

Today, Skype updated its Mac client with one major new feature and a promise of improved multi-tasking thanks to a tweaked control bar that allows video conversation windows to remain in focus even when switching to another application.

Skype for Mac 5.2 also heralds the arrival of group screen sharing for multi-video conferencing. This makes it easier for users to share their screens with other people in the conferencing call for the purposes of sharing documents, photos and presentations.

Group video calling requires that at least one member has a Skype Premium account -- a free seven-day trial is available for free or pay-as-you-go customers, while a day pass ($4.99) is also available to occasional users of the feature. Screen sharing is already available in one-to-one video calls.

Skype for Mac 5.2 also revamps how recent conversations are displayed in the left-hand window: previously all recent conversations were accessible; now the default has been changed to show conversations from the last 24 hours only, with older conversations accessible from a new "History" section. Those who prefer the old view can, thankfully, switch back via Skype for Mac's Preferences window.

In related news, there's still no sign of the official Skype for iPad application, which appears to still be waiting for final approval from the Apple App Store. It was due for release last Tuesday.

Skype 5.2 for Mac is available now as a freeware download for Mac users running OS X 10.5.8 (Leopard) or later. Clients are also available for Windows, Linux, iPhone (also compatible with, but not optimised for, iPad), and Android.