When Skype was first launched in 2003 it revolutionized social media.
Bringing friends and loved ones who are separated by distance together again, and changed the face of business communications forever. When Skype moved to release Windows 8 there was no surprise that they would be hard at work pushing the boundaries once again. With new and improved features, they have created a program that takes the simplicity, and ease that Skype offers, dusted it off and made it even more user friendly.
Skype has given consumers the ability to share in the pleasure of a face-to-face communications. With Skype for Windows 8, users will find loved ones and work contacts at the center of their experience. Upon log in, recent conversations and calls that are most frequented are presented to the user for quick and easy access. Consumers are also presented with the ability to share photos and activities with other Skype users, giving them a peak into their lives. They are able to build an online version of speed dial by giving the consumer the ability to create a favorites list of those they contact frequently. This in turn makes the Skype experience even simpler by having your loved ones at your fingertips without having to rummage through a contacts list and address book, even though those have been upgraded as well.
Skype since the beginning has taken modern, and user friendly to a whole new level. With Skype for Windows 8, they have created a program that can only be described as simple elegance. Following the Windows 8 appearance, Skype has adopted the modern chunky square pane that is easy to find. This makes it easy to explore, while still making sure users don’t miss calls.
When selecting the video users are sent to a defaulted setting, placing the video into full screen mode. It is possible to manually change this to carry on a text chat conversation on the side as well. This makes it so users are able to text chat, video chat, and use other programs all at the same time. Skype’s new screen share makes it possible for both the user and their contact to view your screen at the same time you are able to be face-to-face with them
Another fantastic perk to the new Skype for Windows 8 is the ability to use much less battery power. As a matter of fact even if Skype is running users aren’t using any of their processing power. This feature makes this version of Skype very appealing to tablet users.
With Skype for Windows 8, users have the ability to receive video, calls, and texts while away from the app. Windows will promptly notify the user once they have received a call, video or message in real time, making it easier for you to get in contact with. Because of the Windows 8 touch screen ability consumers are able to keep track of recent calls and conversations by sliding down from the top of the screen.
Even though the face-lift was a much-appreciated surprise to consumers, they were shocked to find the video and call quality was left practically untouched. While there seems to be mixed reviews on the audio quality the main consensus seems to be that although it is manageable users would like to see some improvements in the future.
All of the new additions are thrilling to Skype users everywhere. They have created a program that is easy to use no matter if you are working with a touch screen, keyboard or mouse. As technology is being pushed to new extremes, I am delighted to see Skype is modernizing while keeping the user friendly quality consumers have fallen in love with.
LINE is the latest entry into the cross-service instant messaging world.
Skype is a service that allows users to send text messages, call and video chat with other users.
If you’re looking for a versatile, all-in-one messaging and video calling app that outshines the rest, look no further than Tango.
Viber for Windows is the desktop installation of the popular app. 