Microsoft Unveils Skype 5.0 App That's Been 'Remastered for iPhone'

Popular Microsoft-owned VoIP service Skype has revealed the redesigned app Skype 5.0 app for iPhone with new and improved features, detailing a global release next week. The iPad version of the app is also in works and will be delivered soon with no exact time-frame as of now.

Microsoft said that the Skype 5.0 for iPhone is rewritten 'from the ground up,' and is 'over 5 times faster than the old version.' It includes smoother scrolling, transitioning and animations without hurting battery life and overall performance.

Skype 5.0 'Remastered for iPhone' has been optimised for iOS' unique strength and company is calling it 'the biggest change ever to Skype for iPhone', yet the overall interface is consistent with the Android and Windows Phone devices. The new interface has removed the classic tab bar and has included large and colourful buttons. Users can see the whole new look here on Skype's official page.

The updated Skype for iPhone app also improves the syncing of notifications between devices. Once a user reads a new message on PC, Xbox, or tablet app, it will be automatically marked as read on the iPhone app as well.

Skype for iPhone users can now start a group chat from the hub itself. Offline recipients will also messages or photos in their respective Skype accounts the moment they come online.

"The new Skype for iPhone is redesigned to put your conversation at the center of a faster, smoother and far more integrated experience. Our designers AND engineers have obsessed over every pixel," Microsoft wrote in a blog post.