Microsoft has overhauled Skype for iPhone and the redesigned app's interface looks very similar to the home screen of Windows Phone.
Skype said in a blog post that it is working to deliver a coherent user experience on all devices. The latest update will bring the app's version to Skype 5.0 for the iPhone. Customers who install the latest update on their iPhones will be able to share a "consistent look and feel" as found on Windows Phone and Android apps.
"iPhone will soon join the redesigned Skype mobile app club, and we can't wait for you to try it. The new Skype for iPhone is the most refined version yet. It has all the visual finish that iOS users expect, smooth animations and even a few features that aren't just new for this version, but new to Skype altogether," per Eric Lin, Skype Product Marketing Manager.
Skype claims that the latest version of the app for iPhone has been re-written and customized to best suit the iPhone. The interface in Skype 5.0 for iPhone will omit the classic tab bar as is found on the current version and will also include swipe gestures similar to the one found in Windows Phone. The latest version of the app is expected to offer faster, smoother and fresher user experience.
The Skype blog suggests that the Skype 5.0 for iPhone is five times faster than its previous version. The transition of screens back and forth is supposed to be even smoother without affecting the performance of the smartphone. The group chatting feature in the new Skype version for iPhone has also been improved, which makes it easier to start a group chat. The update also enhances notification syncing between devices. If a user reads a new message on a device other than the iPhone the message will automatically appear as read on the iPhone app.
The app maker points out that the latest update is the biggest alteration made to Skype for iPhone. The app will be available to download in around a week's time. The company is also working on the iPad version of Skype and will deliver the update very soon.
Many people who have been using Skype for iPhone may not like the Windows Phone style user interface. It will be interesting to see if the Windows Phone style interface makes any serious impact on iPhone users in the near term.
Check out the video of Skype for iPhone in action.
