After just over a year since the last significant graphic update, the Skype team has announced yet another overhaul, this time with brighter themes and images. As an added bonus, there are some brand-new additions included. Although it appears that the update is not yet available to the general public, Microsoft has not yet announced a release date for it.
What’s new?
To begin with, the newest version of Skype has a much more modern and aesthetically pleasing design. A vibrant header with multiple, fully-functional theme options—including dark mode—has been added. These hues are now more pervasive in the rest of the app, while before, they were only found in conversations. During the initialization procedure, you will also be treated to some brightly colored drawings. Microsoft is enhancing the app’s usability for people with low eyesight by offering new contrast themes for accessibility.
The mobile calling experience is also getting a facelift to bring it in line with the changes made to the desktop version a year ago. The call stage will no longer be displayed against a constant black background but rather in a light theme. Microsoft claims that it is making it simpler to access all of the call controls at once during a call by adapting the video call layout instantly to the number of participants.
Another major improvement to telephony is the addition of simultaneous translation capabilities. Skype already has the ability to translate audio and text for users during a chat, and soon Microsoft will add a function where the real-time audio translation sounds just like the user’s own voice.
At long last, the Skype app is receiving a Today tab on the main screen, which will provide a new method to view and share relevant news stories without leaving the app. You can customize your news feed by adding stories on topics you’re interested in.
Susan Kowal
Susan Kowal is a serial entrepreneur, angel investor/advisor, and health enthusiast.