Skype (News - Alert) will launch its video chat platform next week.

The service, which initially will only be available on PCs, will be free while it is still in beta but once the beta period is over Skype does plan on charging for it. Skype expects to release a Mac versions later this year.

The function will allow up to five people to be on a video call at one time and is part of the premium features Skype is releasing this year.

Skype also announced this week that is has launched a monthly subscription service for cheap calls to more than 170 countries.

Skype estimates that its new subscription model could save consumers up to 60 percent over its current pay-as-go model.

The subscriptions range from 60-minute to unlimited packages, and with one month, three month and 12 month contracts.