Skype app to get a makeover with integrated camera, reactions & more

Skype has launched four new features for beta testing including in-call & in-chat reactions, integrated camera and a find panel. The blog reads,

“Skype has always been driven by the desire to connect with one another. The importance of helping you have these conversations every day challenges us to innovate and improve the Skype you love. Today, we’re excited to bring you four brand new ways to express yourself on Skype on Android and iOS, exclusively through Skype Preview.”

1. In-call Reactions allow you to enhance your video calls by adding text, live emoticons and real-time photos as “We all know a picture speaks a thousand words”.

2. Messaging Reactions are quite similar to Facebook’s reactions. Reactions are a way of expressing your emotions e.g, love, surprise, anger, excitement, fun etc.

3. Integrated Camera allows you to swipe to left and quickly capture the moment happening right away and then share the picture with your friends by adding emoticons, stickers, filters etc.

4. Find Panel will help you find everything at one place so that you don’t have to switch between the apps. You can easily find and share links, sports results, news, the weather, restaurants, videos and more without leaving the app.

These features are available in Skype Preview app for beta testing. Skype Preview for Android and iOS is the latest mobile version of the Skype Insider Program that provides access to newest features before they’re made available to everyone. After getting feedback from users, they’ll be rolled out to all Android and iOS devices.

“Of course, while you’re having fun with our new features, know that this is a work in progress, so we’re hoping to get your feedback. Simply tap the heart icon on the main screen while on Skype Preview and you will be able to send your comments to our team, helping us shape the future of Skype. Making Skype better for you is what drives us so we are very excited to listen to what you think of these new additions.”

Skype Preview for Android is available on Google Play so you can download it and explore new features. Skype Preview for iOS is available in a limited capacity through Apple’s TestFlight, so you can apply to become a Skype Insider for iOS and if selected, you will get an email invitation to download.

Skype, a video calling application, was acquired by Microsoft in 2011. Last year, Skype introduced group video calls, voice translation for calls and started testing Skype Mingo. It has also partnered with Volvo Cars to introduce Skype for Business in cars. Skype will cut its support to Skype for Windows desktop version 7.16 and below or Skype for Mac version 7.0 to 7.18 from March 1.