Skype, a widely used communication platform, is poised to become even more appealing as Microsoft plans significant updates to the service. These changes aim to enhance the user experience and introduce new functionalities, making Skype a more competitive option in the communication app market.
One of the major updates is the removal of all ads from Skype. Unlike Microsoft’s approach with Windows, where ads have been increasingly integrated, Skype will now be entirely ad-free.
According to a release note from Skype Insider, this change will be implemented across all platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. The absence of ads is expected to result in a cleaner, more visually appealing interface.
The transition to an ad-free experience begins with the latest Insider version 8.125.76.201. Previously, Skype channels were cluttered with advertisements and MSN content. Initial feedback from testers indicates that the removal of ads significantly improves the user experience, although the MSN feed will still be present in a reduced capacity.
In addition to eliminating ads, Microsoft is introducing new AI features to Skype. These include an AI-supported image generation tool that allows users to create images directly within the chat.
The user interface for this feature has been redesigned for better functionality. Moreover, the menu navigation has been optimized for faster access to content, and the overall design for Mac users has been updated to ensure a more uniform look.
While these updates are promising, some users feel that more substantial improvements are needed for Skype to compete effectively with other communication apps like Zoom, Teams, and WhatsApp.
These changes, currently available only to Skype Insiders, mark a positive step, but Skype still has a considerable way to go to match its competitors. The timeline for the broader rollout of the ad-free update to all users remains unknown.
