Microsoft announces big update to Skype for Android

PanARMENIAN.Net - Microsoft announced a big update to Skype for Android, with a particular focus on tablets, which can be downloaded directly from Google Play, The Next Web reports.

First and foremost, Android tablet users have received a new Skype user interface (support for the Kindle Fire HD and Kindle Fire HDX tablets is a go but the Kindle-specific update will be available later this month). The company says the app now puts conversations first, displaying your most recent calls and chats.

It’s also worth noting that the new version brings “all the quality and performance advancements that the total rewrite of version 4.0 brought to phone users.” Furthermore, all Android users will enjoy improved video call quality that will result in up to four times the resolution of previous versions, with enhanced clarity and frame rates (assuming good network conditions).

Other changes and improvements in Skype 4.4 for Android: Accessibility improvements with full support for TalkBack screen reader; Updates that address incoming call issues, including one that was causing phones to reboot; Additional changes to audio routing; Display and UX enhancements when switching orientation.

Microsoft is making the smart move in regularly updating its Android app, especially given that Google is pushing very hard with Hangouts. Given how cross-platform both messaging apps are, the next communication battle will likely be between the two, so standing still is not an option, TNW says.