Microsoft’s Build Conference that was held in San Francisco today saw the debut of some pretty interesting handsets, in addition to the announcement of Windows Phone 8.1 that ought to tickle your fancy. Apart from that, there is also a spanking new Skype for Windows Phone 8.1, while one is at it!
Some of us happen to get our first experience of Skype not on a desktop or notebook, but rather, on a mobile device, going to show just how far things have come since Skype was first introduced to the world. With Skype for Windows Phone 8.1, users will be able to enjoy far more time chatting face to face, thanks to a deep level of integration. One can now upgrade one’s regular phone calls to Skype video calls in a jiffy, where this feature can be previewed in the existing Store app, albeit with more to be revealed in the months ahead. Cortana, Windows Phone’s personal assistant, can also help you start off Skype calls on the go in double quick time, such as saying “Skype, get Lara Kingwell on video”.
Some of the other Skype features on Windows Phone 81 will include the People Hub, letting you video call those whom you hold closest to your heart directly via your contacts, Video Instant Messaging, and 720p video calling, among others.
As for Skype for Windows 8.1, it makes the entire experience more accessible and familiar, allowing your built-in Skype app can be pinned to the taskbar where it remains accessible either on your start screen or on the desktop. The Windows 8.1 update happens to be free to Windows 8 and Windows RT users, too. [Press Release]
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