Just over a year ago Microsoft shipped a completely redesigned version of Skype for iPhone, iPad, and Android in version 5.0 that looked a lot more like a Windows Phone app than previous versions, adding back old features and introducing new features in updates that followed. Now with version 6.0, Skype is taking strides to move its iOS and Android apps away from the Windows Phone look with redesigned versions for both platforms that should feel a lot more familiar for users. Skype 6 for iOS also introduces an enhanced search feature, brings the iPad version up to parity with the iPhone version, and more.
While still retaining the don’t-call-it “Metro” theme used by modern versions of Windows, Skype 6 returns to a traditional tab-based navigation bar along the bottom for easily moving around the app similar to other popular messaging apps including Facebook’s Messenger. Before the latest makeover, Skype was divided into similar categories but put sections at the top. The new iPad version should feel especially familiar to Apple’s Messages users and similar apps.
In the Recents tab, Skype 6 introduces what it calls a new enhanced search feature for finding contacts and groups from past conversation threads. And as mentioned at the top, Skype 6 brings the iPad version up to parity with the Skype for iPhone with a focus on not just video calling but also conversational chatting: “you can share your location, send large emoticons, see web link previews and easily send and receive photos.” Skype also highlights being able to initiate group voice calls and group chats on the updated iPad version.
The redesigned Skype 6.0 for iPhone and iPad is available now for free on the App Store.
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Does it still destroy your battery life?
Skype had their chance. I used to live in Skype, then I got sick of the forced updates and stupid UIX so I looked for alternatives. It’s pretty rare that I launch Skype on any platform anymore. This update will not change anything.
I’m glad it’s got rid of the Windows Phone style interface, but it’s ridiculous that on an iPhone 6 I can only view 5-6 online contacts without scrolling in its list view….Would be much better if it was a grid view that could possibly show up to 20 online contacts at a time… First thing I usually want to do when opening Skype is to immediately see which of my contacts are currently online, but instead it defaults to ‘Recents’, and then I have to tap ‘Contacts’, and then tap ‘Online’ before seeing that… Kinda sucks really.
About fucking time for the iPad app to get some love.