14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft has released a completely new Skype version for Windows users, implementing a series of improvements that have until now been available exclusively in a beta build of the application.
The new Skype client, which can be downloaded right now on all versions of Windows, is supposed to “make it easier to chat and share,” as Microsoft said in a recent announcement, so you should find new options and tools in the conversation window to enhance the overall experience with the app.
Keep in mind, however, that this new version of the app only runs on the desktop of Windows, as the Metro client specifically designed for tablets can be found in the store.
With this update, however, the two versions are brought closer to each other with a new UI and features that are based on a similar design, so Microsoft most likely tried to make the clients look and feel the same in order to provide a continuous experience across devices.
New options in the conversation window
Overall, the conversation window looks cleaner, and the available options seem to be even better organized. Starting with this version, photos are displayed right in the chat with options for instant viewing.
At the same time, Microsoft implemented more spacing between contacts and chats and developed message previews for unread chats, which the company says “should make it even easier to follow conversations.”
File sharing has also been improved with this new version, so when sending documents, for example, a small icon appears next to the thumbnail to enable the receiver to know exactly which type of file they get.
Chat and call in the same window
Another feature that Microsoft has been hard at work on is the simultaneous chatting and calling, so you can now talk to your contacts and message them at the same time, right in the same window.
“With the new side-by-side design, you can effortlessly multi-task on a voice or video call. On Mac, it only takes one click. Share messages, photos or files for a more active conversation together, without ever leaving your call,” Microsoft explains.
Last but not least, the redesigned version of Skype comes with free group video calls, which currently supports up to four participants, but could increase the number in the coming updates.
Needless to say, all these improvements should come in very handy to those hoping for better chat experience on a modern operating system, so make sure that you give the new Skype a try as soon as possible.
