Skype for Business Launched for iOS; Android App Due Later This Year

Microsoft's Skype for Business app, which was launched in August for iOS and Android as a preview, has now been publically released for iOS users. Android version is said to arrive "later this year". The service was launched for desktops in April.

Skype for Business for iOS v6.0 features an updated dashboard that includes the contact search bar along with upcoming meetings and most-recent conversations, all in one place. "Your recent conversations are at your fingertips, no matter which device you had the conversation on. You can also easily glance at your upcoming appointments-simply tap on the left for the meeting details or on the icon on the right to join immediately," states the Microsoft Office Blog.

The app now shows fullscreen video chats with larger buttons to mute, add participants in a call, and more. Simultaneous viewing or screen sharing feature additionally comes as a part of the update.

Office 365 customers can use Active Directory Authentication Library (ADAL)-based authentication in the app for better security. The feature would let IT admins configure multi-factor authentication for the Skype for Business iOS app. In this, users would additionally have to answer a call, text message, or acknowledge an app notification after successfully logging in using the ID and Password.

Skype for Business for iOS is available to download from App Store. The Lync 2013 app for iPhone users would automatically convert in to the Skype for Business app. However, iPad users would need to download the new app.

Notably in June this year, Microsoft announced Skype for Business integration for its Office 365 for Web suite. Users can start an instant chat or voice/ video conversation with their colleagues directly and without leaving from the Inbox, OneDrive for Business or Calendar application.