14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft has introduced a new feature called Send Money that would enable users of the most recent Skype version for iOS and Android to transfer funds to the account of a friend, all without leaving the conversation.
Send Money is powered by PayPal, and Microsoft says that the user who makes the payment needs to be running the latest version of Skype’s mobile app, while the friend who is receiving the funds can be running any version of the messaging app.
Basically, the process only requires a few simple steps, and the first time you use Send Money you are prompted to confirm your location. This is because the feature only works in a number of locations like the United States, the UK, and the majority of big markets in Europe.
No support for Windows phones
Completing this step takes you to a screen that requires to link the PayPal account to the Skype profile, so what you have to do next is swipe right, tap the option that reads Send Money, provide your credentials and then complete the money transfer process.
It takes just a few seconds, but it’s worth knowing that the person who receives the funds also needs to have a PayPal account and must live in one of the countries that are supported by this feature.
“Questions like ‘Can I reimburse you for those movie tickets?’ or ‘What do I owe you for Mom’s gift?’ no longer require switching from Skype to your browser or banking app to start a payment process,” Microsoft explains. “Currency exchange is no problem. If you’re sending funds from the U.S., for example, to someone in Europe, you will have the option to send money in Euros.”
Unfortunately, there’s not a single word about Windows phones, so the focus still seems to be on Android and iOS for the time being. On the other hand, Windows 10 Mobile users should be able to receive funds just fine, provided they live in one of the supported markets.