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.

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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.

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Skype Preview is available immediately for Mac users via the Skype Insider website.

Tag: Skype

Top Rated Comments

111 months ago
What a stupid decision, or a good decision if they want their users to leave the platform.

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”
Score: 11 Votes (Like | Disagree)
111 months ago
It's getting worse and worse. Literally bunch of idi*ts work on this SW. I am not planning upgrade to this crap. Sorry for such words, but..
Score: 9 Votes (Like | Disagree)
fokmik Avatar
111 months ago
i hate the mobile skype app...i no longer have a list with "online users"
Score: 8 Votes (Like | Disagree)
luvbug Avatar
111 months ago
There are folks still actually using Skype? I'm shocked!
Score: 8 Votes (Like | Disagree)
111 months ago
i hate the mobile skype app...i no longer have a list with "online users"
It's absolutely dreadful. I have no idea what they were thinking.
Score: 7 Votes (Like | Disagree)
BeSweeet Avatar
111 months ago
It's so bad. It's just as inefficient of a UI on a bigger screen as on a smaller one. Too much wasted space. Nobody asked for something like that.
Score: 5 Votes (Like | Disagree)

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