You can now use Skype even if you don't have an account

Microsoft has announced that it's no longer necessary for you to have a Skype or Microsoft account in order to use Skype. Starting today, anyone can use the messaging service without the need to sign in first. This works if you go to Skype.com and use Skype for Web. You just choose Start a conversation when you're on the website, and add your name. You'll then get a unique conversation link which you can send to other people - once they click on it they'll join your Skype chat.

These people don't need to have a Skype account either, in order to join your conversation. They too can use Skype as a Guest and not sign in, while still being able to talk to you as if they did. Oh, and everyone that uses Skype without an account can enjoy most of its features, for free - one to one or group messaging, voice and video calls, screen sharing, as well as file sharing. You can invite up to 300 people to such a chat, while voice and video calls are limited to 25 people at a time.

The only caveat is that your conversations will only last for 24 hours if you choose to go this route and use Skype as a Guest. So the idea here seems to be that you'll try this and then get hooked on the service, thus eventually taking the time to create an account. If you do so you'll also be able to call landlines and mobile numbers, and translate conversations in real-time.

Source