Microsoft has released an updated Skype for Windows Phone 8 that turns on Message notifications for Messenger buddies, by default. With this new update (version 2.5), the popular video messaging app's Windows Phone version also drops the 'Preview' (beta) tag.
Detailing the changes in a
blog post, Microsoft doesn't mention specific changes other than the ones related to notifications, but says that the update is focused on general improvements and reliability.
The update fixes issues including the Skype app crashing on startup for some users who signed in with Microsoft Account, message notifications showing contact names separated with '20%' instead of space, video call button being disabled straight after accepting incoming contact request and issues with video calling.
Last month, Microsoft had
released an update for Skype for Windows Phone 8 preview, version 2.4, that brought HD calling in addition to integration with the Windows Phone People Hub. Following the update, the app could use hardware acceleration capability of Windows Phone 8, to enable face-to-face video calls in HD.
Additionally, Skype had also added landscape mode for calls, and the ability to switch between front and back cameras. The update had also added the ability to switch between accounts, by simply tapping on the profile picture and choosing "switch accounts" from the menu.
Skype had also mentioned that the update would make background notifications and staying available when the app is closed more reliable.
What's New in Skype for Windows Phone 8 version 2.5*Message notifications for Messenger buddies are now on by default
*General fixes and stability improvements.
Issues fixed*Skype crashing on startup for some users who signed in with Microsoft Account
*Message notifications sometimes had contact names separated with 20% instead of space.
*Video call button was disabled straight after accepting incoming contact request
*Full screen local video preview was stretched sometimes
*Incoming 720p video on portrait mode was zoomed in