Software giant Microsoft has released a new Skype beta for the Windows 10 mobile. In fact, the company has actually split both the messaging and video applications.
The company has announced that Skype's newly separated apps can now be downloaded via a preview build of Windows 10 mobile. Industry experts claim that this new development makes Microsoft's communication platform a game changer in the next-generation smartphone, in its attempt to replace the company's native messaging client, a report from The Verge said on Tuesday.
Tech Buffalo reports that the new Skype Messaging app actually replaces the default or the native SMS app. Microsoft says that the app puts all messages in one place. It also allows mobile users to have seamless communication using both the short messaging system and multimedia messaging system without using multiple apps.
"Skype Video becomes Microsoft's answer to Apple's FaceTime, but it's more than just a video messaging client. According to the app's description, it also facilitates traditional voice calls, too, replacing Windows 10 Mobile's stock phone app," the report adds.
Skype's Messaging beta app has a file size of 24.7 MB. However, users are still given the option to retain the current native Messaging app if they wish. This means that both apps can be installed on the phone unless a user accepts or selects an option for all new SMS to be opened using the new combined messaging application.
What follows the messaging app download is the Skype's Video Preview. It was said that the video preview offers a more streamlined Skype experience. Through Skype's Video Preview, users will be able to make a direct call to other users via video. Industry experts say that the app is actually similar to Apple's FaceTime.
"The overall experience so far with both apps is positive. The messaging apps is very similar to the current messaging app. Users can choose a Skype or typical SMS-style when creating a new message.You can dynamically switch between Skype and SMS within a single conversation so long as the contact's information is linked together (Skype and personal number)," Windows Central reports.
