Skype has released a new Windows Phone 8 app update today. The new Skype for Windows Phone 8 version 2.4 brings HD video calling support for high end devices. These devices include the likes of Nokia Lumia 920, HTC 8X and the Samsung Ativ S. The HD video calling feature works on hardware acceleration on high end Windows Phone 8 devices, so low and mid range devices will be limited to VGA video. The high definition video relies on an Internet connection, this app will automatically select compatible video quality based on the strength of the internet connection. Microsoft claims that this new update improves video call quality on all devices, HD or not.
Apart from 720p HD video calling, the new Skype Windows Phone 8 app brings a couple of new updates as well. Skype contacts will now be included in the Windows Phone People Hub, thus eliminating the need to launch Skype app, as calls can be initiated straight from the People Hub. Users can now easily switch through multiple accounts as account switching has now been integrated in to the main menu of the app. The new app fixes bugs and reliability issues. The new Skype Windows Phone 8 app is now available as a free download from the Windows Phone Store.