I have heard that people can use plugins (i.e. festoon) so they can get video during their conference calls. For that to work, would everyone in the party need to download the plugin for it to work or could it work with just one person downloading it?

It works only when all parties have the plug-in.

However it is a moot point festoon and another like them basically shut down their Skype products.

Just hang in there I am sure Skype will have what you want soon and with out plug-ins.

Bill

ok thank you. so for the time being skype conferences will be audio only?

That is correct Steve.

But I am as anxious as you to get video conferencing.

You might want to checkout ooVoo. They have Video Conferencing

Regards,

Bill