14 DAY TRIAL // If you're one of the many users who installed Windows 8.1 Preview, you probably noticed that the Messaging app is missing from the Start screen. That's because Microsoft killed Windows Live Messenger earlier this year, so the Metro app didn't make much sense.
It turns out that Windows 8.1 RTM will completely retire the Messaging tool in the favor of Skype, as Microsoft is trying to make its VoIP platform the default instant messaging software in the new operating system.
The Verge writes that Windows 8.1 RTM will allow users to answer voice and video calls straight from the lock screen, most likely thanks to improved gesture support.
At this point, Skype is already available on Windows 8 as a Metro app, but it's only offered as a Windows Store download, so it's not integrated into the operating system. That's going to change as soon as October, when Windows 8.1 RTM is supposed to hit the market.