URI opens the Skype app to connect a call or send a message

Feb 9, 2015 13:47 GMT  ·  By

Skype users wielding an iPhone should pay attention to their updates queue today because Microsoft is getting ready to unleash a new version of the communications app with URI support and an improved dialer.

A uniform resource identifier, or URI, is a protocol that enables interaction with representations of a resource over a network. Particularities in the Skype number allow tapping that number to launch Skype automatically for calling or messaging.

Reinstated URI support

Microsoft has decided that URI support is a must have for iPhone users, and decided to reinstate the scheme in the mobile Skype client. It even offers an example of how the tool works:

“For example, if you’re browsing restaurant options on an app or mobile website that utilizes Skype URIs, tapping on the phone number would launch Skype so you could call and make a reservation.”

Those interested in learning more on how Skype URIs work are directed to the Skype Dev Center portal.

URIs also empower developers to use Skype’s infrastructure to start calls and chats directly from their app. When a user taps on a Skype name or number, the URI will launch Skype on the iPhone (provided that the app is already installed, of course) and instantly go into messaging or connect a call.

Dialer now lets you save numbers more easily

Microsoft has been working on Skype’s dialer interface for a long time now, but the Redmond company doesn’t seem to be finished quite yet. Per Microsoft’s blog announcement, iPhone users can save numbers that have been entered into the dial pad recently, as well as create new contacts on the spot.

Skype 5.10 wasn’t available for download at the time of this writing, but we expect the app to go live any minute now. Microsoft hasn't said anything about Skype for iPad getting these enhancements, but we'll be sure to let you know if they did when the update goes live.

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