Skype for iPhone Adds Enhanced UI Improvements and Pre-Release Feedback Program

[MacRumors]

Microsoft today announced the release of an updated version of its Skype iOS client app bringing a few tweaks to the dial pad and chat picker alongside a new pre-release feedback program.

The first major user interface overhaul focuses on the dial pad, streamlining the process by automatically detecting matching numbers as soon as the user begins inputting a phone number. The update to the new chat picker further expedites the process of starting a chat or a call, letting users scroll through a quick list of their contacts, making them all a tap away from a video call or voice chat.

Perhaps most interesting in the 5.9 update, however, is Microsoft's introduction of the new pre-release program for the iOS Skype app. The company states it is currently looking for "enthusiastic Skype users" who can provide feedback on the chat program's iOS app to "shape and enhance" the program in the future.

Those willing to sign up will gain access to early versions of Skype for iOS in the future, provided they agree to update the company with "regular feedback" as each update is rolled out to them. Applicants must also be 18 years or older with a valid email address and Skype or Microsoft account.

You can help us shape your skype experience by:
-Trying out some new or upgraded features (don't worry we'll let you know what's new) and tell us about your experience after doing so
-Giving us feedback and suggestions on what you would like to see in the app in the future
-Letting us know of any issues that you run into while using this previewed version

The new version 5.9 is available now, and those interested in the pre-release program, which the company promises has limited availability, can sign up on Skype's official website. Skype for iPhone is available for free from the App Store. [Direct Link]

Article Link: Skype for iPhone Adds Enhanced UI Improvements and Pre-Release Feedback Program

 

[CaryMacGuy]

They need to update Skype for the iPad. It is pretty bad.

 

[Mashurrab]

I was lost when I started to use it but it feels somehow fresh. I think it is a step in the right direction.

 

[richwoodrocket]

I see nothing new other an ui. Hopefully they improved their push notifications

 

[nagromme]

So, can you finally stay logged in full-time to receive incoming chat/call alerts WITHOUT the app actually running in the background hogging battery? Like a normal mobile communications app from 5 years ago? Like AIM, FaceTime, WeChat, Facebook and the rest?

 

[Sasparilla]

Good to keep in mind

Anytime Skype is brought up, its good to bear in mind that the Snowden documents detailed how Microsoft had rewritten Skype to give the NSA pre-encryption access to all Skype communications (video, audio and text):

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2013/jul/11/microsoft-nsa-collaboration-user-data

http://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2014/12/newly-published-nsa-documents-show-agency-could-grab-all-skype-traffic/

As such, any user (particularly those that use Skype from the U.S. to overseas) should expect their Skype communications to be collected and stored on U.S. government servers for future use by the U.S. government.

An interesting side note, that is somewhat related, is that the same company (VirnetX) that sued Apple, won and forced them to drop point to point encryption of Facetime etc. communications and go to a server model (where the NSA can issue NSL's for access to communications) also previously sued Cisco and Microsoft (after they bought Skype) - VirnetX executives previously worked for the NSA and Dept of Defense.

http://www.bbc.com/news/technology-20236114

 

[Steve121178]

At the end of the day if you're not doing anything wrong then you have nothing to worry about.

As someone who worked for one of Europe's largest mobile phone networks, I can tell you that the local Government has full access to all your communications, calls, messages, e-mails, video calls etc. If it is sent from your phone/computer/tablet/communication device then Government has it. All of it. This is fairly common knowledge.