The application will also show notifications in the Action Centre

Jun 26, 2014 16:03 GMT  ·  By

Today, Microsoft has made available for download an updated version of the Skype application, which has been designed specifically for all Windows Phone 8.1 and Windows Phone 8 handsets out there.

Thus, the new app iteration arrives on smartphones with a series of features that will go along nicely with the latest platform release from Microsoft, including Cortana integration.

To be more precise, the new Skype version will make it even easier for users to start Skype calls while on the go, as they can do so by simply asking Cortana to call their contacts.

“Today we’re pleased to introduce some exciting new capabilities in the Skype 2.19 update for Windows Phone 8 and Windows Phone 8.1,” Microsoft announces.

“This update includes Cortana integration and video upgrade preview improvements for Windows Phone 8.1, and increased language support from 19 to 51 languages, fast app resume, and improved notifications for both Windows Phone 8.1 and Windows Phone 8.”

As Microsoft explains, to place a Skype call using Cortana, users will simply need to say something like “Skype get Lara Kingwell on the screen.” At the moment, the personal assistant on Windows Phone 8.1 is available only in the United States, officially.

The update app iteration also brings along Skype notifications in the Action Centre on Windows Phone 8.1, alongside email, text, social media, and other notifications.

Skype 2.19 for Windows Phone also boasts support for additional languages and, therefore, more users can connect using this application on their smartphones.

Additionally, the updated software release comes with the ability to edit the last sent message, a feature that has been requested by users, it seems.

In addition to these new features, the updated application iteration is also complemented by a series of improvements in the performance of push notifications, “to get you quickly back into the conversations you care about.”

“We’re always looking to improve your experience on Skype and pay close attention to your feedback. We’d love to hear your ideas for Skype for Windows Phone, so feel free to post them [on the Skype community forums],” Microsoft notes.

The updated Skype for Windows Phone 8.1 and Windows Phone 8 application is already rolling out to users out there. However, as it usually happens with this kind of updates, some of you might not see it as available immediately, which means that you’ll have to check on it again to grab it.

You can download Skype 2.19 for Windows Phone 8.1 from Softpedia today.