Tick-tock. Whereas many predicted Microsoft’s acquisition would wreck the world’s most-popular VOIP app, such as it is, things have turned out very differently. Redmond’s Messenger platform is dead and Skype for Mac keeps getting updated and improved.

Skype for Mac 6.3 (blog, download) is now available and, though the changes aren’t thrilling, here they are:

• See a slideshow of other participants in a group call when you are the current speaker
— When you are the current speaker in a group call, you will see a slideshow of other participants in the call monitor.

• New In-Call DTMF dial pad
— For generating DTMF tones

Being able to generate DTMF tones is important for interacting with automated calling systems, like those used by your bank, utilities and credit card company. Not a thrilling feature, but an important step forward that makes it just a little more possible to drop traditional cell and landline service for Skype alone.

Benevolent Microsoft, who knew?

Related posts:
— Mac Apps: Skype 6.2, GIMP 2.8.4, FotoMagico 4.2
— Skype for Mac 6.1 Improves Click to Call, User Profile
— Mac Updates: Evernote, Dropbox, Office for Mac, Flash Player and Boom!
— Mac Apps: Geekbench 2.4.2, Firefox 19.0.2, CleanMyMac 2 + Mac Coder Party Tips
— F1rmware: Get, Install the iOS Version You Need