Microsoft releases Skype for Windows Phone 8 preview

Microsoft's premier VoIP, chat, and video call software Skype has received updates across the board for the new generation of Windows products. Monday, Microsoft released a new preview build of Skype for Windows Phone 8, following up on the app's announcement two weeks ago.

The new preview build includes all of the basic Skype functionality: free Skype-to-Skype voice calls over 3G and Wi-Fi, group instant messaging, free video calls to other Skype Users, and outbound Skype dialing.

Caveat from Microsoft: “Some capabilities listed…are work-in-progress and may not function consistently. This includes, but is not limited to: call reliability and the ability to receive incoming calls and chat notifications when outside of the app.”

In terms of Windows Phone 8 special features, it includes integration with the Windows Phone People Hub and a unified contact list with Microsoft Accounts and the soon-to-be-retired Windows Live Messenger. Last but not least, it features the "modern" design of Windows and live tile accessibility. Like Skype for Windows 8, the Windows Phone 8 version also features always-on accessibility, even when the app is closed.

Skype for Windows Phone 8 (2.0.0.473) can be downloaded in the Windows Phone Marketplace now.