Users will be offered the desktop version instead

Jun 11, 2015 19:20 GMT  ·  By

Windows 8 was often considered a very confusing operating system, pretty much because it had two different working environments, Metro - for touch-capable devices and the desktop - for a mouse and keyboard, but in some cases, the same app was available in different versions for each.

Skype is the best example, as those who wanted to chat with their friends could download either the Modern app, available in the store and offering touch support, or the desktop client, which was already available for Windows users since Microsoft purchased Skype four years ago.

With Windows 10, Microsoft is trying to fight the confusion that might be created because of these two versions of Skype, so it'll discontinue the Modern app.

The company announced today that all users will be offered the desktop version of Skype starting July 7, with all their contacts and conversations to be available in this client once they switch.

Desktop client optimized for the touch

One of the reasons behind Microsoft's decision is that the desktop version of Skype is already optimized for the touch, so if you have a tablet and want to chat with friends, the Modern app makes little sense.

You can always download and install the desktop client, which provides an even better experience, while also offering touch support.

“With the upcoming release of Windows 10 for PCs, it makes sense to use the Skype application optimized for mouse and keyboards use, capable of doing touch as well rather than 2 separate applications performing the same function,” Microsoft said.

What about Windows RT? you might ask. On Windows RT, Microsoft's odd platform that does not support desktop apps, the Modern version of Skype will live on, but the company is yet to reveal whether more updates would be released or not.

Obviously, you don't have to wait until July 7 to start the migration, so you can download Skype for Windows desktop right now to get used to the new client.