14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft has removed the old Messaging app from Windows 8.1 Preview, but a recently-leaked build came with a pre-installed version of Skype, suggesting that the company plans to offer it as the default chat tool.
The Softies have finally confirmed in a blog post that Skype will indeed join the other Metro apps on the standard Start screen line-up, so all Windows 8.1 users will be provided with the famous VoIP service from the get-go.
“Now you don’t have to download your favorite app to stay in touch whenever you’re apart. With Windows 8.1, simply log in and you’re ready to go. This means not only will you be able to reach over 300 million Skype users across many different devices but also everyone with a Windows 8.1 PC,” the company said in a statement.
“By simply searching and adding contacts to your People list in Skype – the people you care about are at your fingertips, and you are in control of who those contacts are.”
Microsoft is once again claiming that bringing Skype by default in Windows 8.1 is a decision based on customer feedback, promising to implement even more improvements in the near future.
“As the default communications experience in Windows 8.1, we will continue to focus on delivering the best communications experience for Windows users through Skype. We received valuable feedback since the launch of the Skype for Windows 8 app and you can bet we will continue to listen after the release of Skype in Windows 8.1,” it said.
Windows 8.1 is set to hit the market on October 18, with Windows 8 users to be allowed to get it from the Store a day earlier. The OS update will bring lots of improvements, including a Start button supposed to make the desktop environment a bit more familiar for those moving from an older platform to Windows 8.