Skype is now available for Windows Phone users, and it includes the ability for voice calling, video calling, messaging and most other standard Skype functions.
The Skype for Windows Phone beta app is a free download from the Windows Phone Marketplace. Details are below regarding supported features, unsupported features, system requirements, and certified phones for using Skype for Windows Phone.
Supported Features: Skype for Windows Phone (Beta App)
Most of the features found in other versions of Skype are available in the Skype Windows Phone beta app. The supported features in Skype for Windows Phone are:
- Skype-to-Skype voice calling (free voice calls to other Skype users).
- Skype video calling.
- Sending and receiving instant messages while on a call.
- Calling phones and mobiles (with Skype Credit or a Skype subscription).
- Receiving Skype calls.
- Receiving calls to Online Numbers.
- Call forwarding.
- Instant messaging.
- Group instant messaging.
Depending on your phone service plan, data charges may apply when using these Skype features.
Skype has previously been available for Android, iPhone, Blackberry, and Symbian.
Unsupported Features: Skype for Windows Phone (Beta App)
Some features typically found in other versions of Skype are not currently available in the Skype Windows Phone beta app, but should be included in the final version of the app. The unsupported features in Skype for Windows Phone are:
- Participating in conference calls (audio only).
- Adding contacts.
- Running Skype in the background.
Skype for Windows Phone does not run in the background. When you navigate away from the application on the device, your status is automatically set to offline. You will not receive incoming calls or chats after you navigate away from Skype.
Requirements: Skype for Windows Phone (Beta App)
The Skype beta app requires a phone running the Windows Phone 7.5 operating system (known as “Mango”). Skype will not work with older Windows Phone operating systems or with Windows Mobile.
To use Skype for Windows Phone beta app, the basic requirements are:
- A smartphone running Windows Phone 7.5.
- A Skype account (existing or new).
- A 3G data connection or a Wi-Fi network connection.
The Skype for Windows Phone beta app is currently only available in English. More languages should be supported in the final app version.
Certified Phones: Skype for Windows Phone (Beta App)
Since Skype for Windows Phone is a beta app, it may not work properly for all phones, at all times. Skype has tested and certified the following mobile devices to offer the best performance when using Skype for Windows Phone:
- Nokia Lumia 710
- Nokia Lumia 800
- HTC Titan
- HTC Radar
- Samsung Focus S
- Samsung Focus Flash
Other devices may or may not have issues when running the Skype for Windows Phone beta app. Problems may include:
- Occasional crashing
- Missing features
- Slow performance with large accounts in loading lists of contacts and messages
- Slow performance in synchronizing large conversations
For the best call quality, ensure that you have a stable and fast Wi-Fi connection, while also avoiding running a large number of apps at the same time (especially multimedia players and web browsers that require a lot of memory from your phone).