How to Use a Talking Avatar on Skype

Avatars are used in instant messaging and chatting to represent or symbolize users. Dynamic avatars are programmed with text-to-speech technology so that text in a message or chat window is spoken by the avatar. They are also used for video calls. Skype, a phone service based on Internet calling, allows customers to download talking avatars for video calling. No need to comb your hair, use a talking avatar on Skype.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Get Skype online or with the purchase of a product like the SanDisk flash disk. Download Skype from the Skype website for free. Use Skype as a low cost telephone service. Call internationally or locally for a basic fee and for a small additional fee get a phone number so that anyone can call you via your computer.

2. Find plug-ins for talking avatars online at websites, such as "Gizmoz" or "SeeStorm." Download for free, use various characters and have them lip-sync with your voice. Send e-cards, email and instant messages with your talking avatars.

3. Make your own avatar or create one that looks like your favorite celebrity or cartoon character to use a talking avatar on Skype. Add other features along with your talking avatar and change background pictures, express emotions and customize your avatar.

4. Know that some facial animation and lip-sync software, like "CrazyTalk" isn't free but offers users a free trial. Discover that "CrazyTalk" allows users to also send video messages that include media attachments like movie trailers and users can also give PowerPoint or photo slide presentations when they use a talking avatar on Skype.

5. Use Skype along with other programs for many different functions. Monitor your house or business from another location with "Snarf" for Skype. Utilize the Skype Answering Machine or "SAM" whenever you're away from your computer.

Resources

• Download Skype to make phone calls from your computer.
• Get the talking avatar plug-in from gizmoz
• Visit seestorm
• Watch a video, see a talking avatar in action and find out more