Skype today announced the release of a preview version of its next-generation desktop software, which is designed to emulate the redesigned mobile experience that it released in June.
The new version of Skype shares design elements with the mobile version, but it has been created for the desktop's larger screen. Microsoft calls it the "most expressive Skype ever" with livelier group chats, real-time screen and photo sharing, and more.
Skype's redesign features a new notification panel that displays mentions and message reactions, allowing users to better keep up with conversations.
There's a new chat media gallery for keeping track of photos and documents shared in a chat, and group calls feature in-call reactions with emoji that can be shared.
Skype Preview is available immediately for Mac users via the Skype Insider website.
![Apple Pulls Keynote, Pages and Numbers From App Store [Update: Back]](https://images.macrumors.com/t/Okb7kitB_gNr6qe5Pex9nQIysD8=/112x112/article-new/2026/01/Apple-Creator-Studio-iWork-suite.jpg)
Top Rated Comments
This is an interface that is widely hated, especially by their current users. This abandons their current users in a pathetic attempt to regain popularity and attract new users.
If this goes ahead as it is today, there should be another version of Skype for more professional use, or just people who don’t want the aspects of the “most expressive Skype yet”