14 DAY TRIAL // Remastered for iPhone, Skype 5.0 is about to roll out in all the key markets in the coming days. To ensure things run smoothly, Microsoft has instructed Apple to pull the existing (outdated) version from the iTunes App Store.
Leaving some people scratching their heads, Microsoft today retracted the iPhone version of its popular Skype application as it prepares to launch the massively updated version, Skype 5.0.
The Redmond giant confirmed it was behind the move with the following statement offered to the media.
“We have removed the Skype for iPhone app from the Apple iTunes store in some markets, as we begin rolling out the latest version. Skype 5.0 for iPhone will soon be available worldwide for download – in the meantime, you can learn about the great new features coming with the new version here.”
One of the major changes will be noticed in the app’s interface. Skype 5 on iPhone now looks identical to the Windows Phone and Android clients, but it’s still optimized for Apple gear.
“We’ve been working to provide a coherent experience no matter what device you use. Skype 5.0 for iPhone shares a consistent look and feel with the Windows Phone and Android apps, while still optimizing for iOS’s unique strengths,” Microsoft said in a blog post this week.
The Windows maker promises a much faster and smoother experience, with the app’s performance being enhanced fivefold, which coincidentally matches the version number of the update.
“You’ll notice the effort we’ve put into this overhaul as soon as you launch Skype 5.0 for iPhone. The new version is over 5 times faster than the old version,” Microsoft has said.
iPhone users will be able to start group chats from the hub without worrying whether anyone is on the receiving end at that particular time. Anything you share will appear on their screens whenever they come online.
Skype notifications will finally work as expected, including the unread count, according to Redmond.
“This is the biggest change ever to Skype for iPhone, and soon we will be delivering a new iPad version too,” Microsoft added. “Skype for iPhone will be available globally in about a week, but we just couldn’t keep quiet any longer. We promise we’ll let you know as soon as you can download it!” the company said.
Hopefully, users won’t have to wait too long to get the update. As it stands, any newcomer looking to download and install the iPhone version of Skype is locked out.