Skype retiring its Modern application for PCs, RT left unchanged

The Skype modern app is being retired on July 7th of this year. With the exception of Windows RT users, for whom there will be no change, all users of Skype on the PC will be directed to an updated desktop version of Skype.

In a Skype blog post, Microsoft explains their reasoning for the switch and discusses what the updated desktop application will look like. The post cites feedback from users stating that the desktop version of Skype provides easier access and navigation and has features such as group video calling, screen sharing, and working together on documents, and potentially by the end of the summer, translation. The updated app will be “optimized for mouse and keyboard use” but is also “capable of doing touch.

Many users of PCs aren’t affected by this change as they are already using the desktop version of Skype. The modern version was less powerful and limited what you could do on your PC while on a call. 

When making the switch, your contacts and conversations from the last 30 days will be available.

Microsoft also touched on the future of Skype being built into Messaging, Phone, and Skype video within Windows 10

“Don’t worry we will begin rolling the apps to get your feedback later this year. This way if you want to quickly make a call or send a message you can use task based apps and for those of you power users who like the advantages of the all in one app, you can pick what’s right for you.”