14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft is once again changing the way Skype is being offered to users on its modern platforms and instead of integrating the client into the Messaging app, the company is now planning to release a universal app that would work on both PCs and mobile devices.
Specifically, Microsoft announced that in the coming weeks it would release a universal version of Skype for PCs, with the mobile sibling to get the green light shortly after that.
The Skype universal app will become the main version offered to Windows 10 adopters, no matter if they’re using a phone or a PC, and will include the essential functionality of the application. At first, the app will come with options to share photos, get notifications for calls, join group chats, and start video calls, while future updates will also bring group messaging and video calling, screen sharing and more.
“Based on feedback”
Redmond says this new decision is entirely based on consumer feedback and it’s very clear that a universal app would make more sense in the current app environment.
“What we also learned from this feedback is that as the screen size gets bigger—large tablets, 2 in 1s and PCs for example—and you begin to use the apps, expectations shift and people want to limit app clutter. And like that, you once again want an app that lets you do anything you want within the comfort of one window. This is why we are introducing the Skype Universal Windows Platform app,” Microsoft says.
Back in 2012 when Microsoft launched Windows 8, the company was offering not only the classic desktop client, but also a “Metro” version of the app specifically supposed to run on PCs and tablets with a touch-optimized interface. This version was discontinued last year, but it’s kind of coming back now with the universal app plans.
