14 DAY TRIAL // Good news for Skype users who own Windows Phone devices, as they are now eligible for a major update that will bring a few important new features and improvements.
Following last year’s announcement, Skype team is now introducing extended security features for Windows Phone users. For those unaware, Skype confirmed back in September that new users who signed up for its service on Skype.com would be registered for a Microsoft account.
The Microsoft account would ensure that new Skype users are fully protected with extra security features, more privacy and better password recovery. These features have been brought to Windows Phone users beginning today.
Unfortunately, only those who own Windows Phone 8 devices will benefit from the improved security features offered by Skype 2.16, the new version that has just been uploaded to Windows Phone Store.
All new Skype users signing up to Skype for the first time on their Windows Phone devices will be able to register with their Microsoft account. This is similar to Android smartphones that allow users to register with their Gmail accounts in order to access the Google Play Store.
However, instead of providing access to an applications store, the latest version of Skype offers Windows Phone 8 users better security features.
Keep in mind that the Microsoft account required to sign up to Skype in order to benefit from the new security features is the same that you entered when you first set up your Windows Phone devices and the same account that is used for additional Microsoft services such as Outlook and OneDrive.
Those who already use Skype on their Windows Phone devices will be able to link together their Skype and Microsoft accounts. They only need to sign in to Skype on their Windows Phone using their Microsoft account email address and password instead of using their usual Skype account.
Aside from the improved security features mentioned earlier, Skype 2.16 also brings a brand new typing indicator, so users will now be able to see when someone is typing a message. Developers have also made it easier for Skype users to locate the “Mark as Read” option for new messages, so you can now find it in the “Recent” list view.
You can now download Skype for Windows Phone 2.16 for free via Softpedia. Keep in mind that the application is only compatible with devices powered by Windows Phone 8 and up.