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Unlike the version for Windows Phone 7.5 and other operating systems, this version will be more in depth. Skype is a division of Microsoft, and they have worked very closely together to make an app that seems as if it was integrated into the operating system.
Skype has added many features that make it the perfect app to keep yourself ‘in the loop’ with friends and family. One of these features is the “always on” feature. Even when the app is closed it is functioning in the background, so you can still receive phone calls and messages. If your phone happens to be off, you can still access information about phone and video calls as well as messages on Skype. Windows claims that this feature will not affect battery life, but this has yet to be tested. Another great feature is the incoming call feature. For example, you have just received a call on your phone using the traditional phone taking method, and while you are on the phone someone calls you on Skype. With this app you now have a screen that pops up, which allows you to switch to the Skype call that you received.
The Windows Phone 8 Start Screen includes resizable tiles for your apps from small to large. The size of your tile affects what information about each app is displayed. For example, with Skype the smallest sized tile would show the number of current unread messages. At its largest size, the Skype tile would show the last message that you received. If you have Skype on your computer or tablet, this app will import your Skype contacts and add a “favorites” option for your most called contacts. It will also import your contacts from Windows Live ID, as Microsoft plans to discontinue Windows Live Messenger and replace it with Skype.
All of the new features present on the newest version of Skype make it a vital download for all Windows Phone 8 users who enjoy using VOIPs. The Skype app is free, so even if you have never used VOIP services before, there is no risk to try it out. If you like it, you can also choose to make calls to cell phones and landline phones for a low cost.
This article is a guest post from PackNet, a leading provider of business telephone systems in the UK.
