Microsoft announces Skype update optimized for older Android devices

By Dan Thorp-Lancaster
published

A new update to the Skype app on Android brings a slew of optimizations for older devices.

Microsoft announces Skype update optimized for older Android devices

Microsoft today revealed an updated version of Skype (opens in new tab) that is optimized for older Android devices. The update, which Microsoft says will begin rolling out "in the next few days," is aimed at devices running well on devices with Android versions 4.0.3 through 5.1.

The idea behind this Skype release is reminiscent of Microsoft's efforts with Skype Lite , which it released for the Indian market last year. The update is designed to be "lighter on both disk and memory consumption, allowing for greater speed and better audio and video quality on lower-end Android devices," Microsoft says. You can also expect better performance in areas where your network connection may not be the best.

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If you're using an Android device on a version between 4.0.3 and 5.1, then you can expect the update to start rolling out in the coming days. According to Microsoft, the update should be rolled out around the world within the coming weeks. If you can't wait to give it a try, you can test the experience out now by signing up for hte Skype Insider Program (opens in new tab).

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Dan Thorp-Lancaster
Dan Thorp-Lancaster

Dan Thorp-Lancaster is the former Editor-in-Chief of Windows Central. He began working with Windows Central, Android Central, and iMore as a news writer in 2014 and is obsessed with tech of all sorts. You can follow Dan on Twitter @DthorpL and Instagram @heyitsdtl. 

6 Comments
  • When do they release a version that is optimized and runs well on new devices?
  • Another branch of Skype. Like that is what Skype needs. Meanwhile, their Win32 and WinRT versions die slowly.
  • Still no fluent design. Still no functionality around SMS relay. But hey, Skype for Professionals is a thing. I guess. For some reason. Or will be, because it isn't released yet and won't be UWP.
  • Fluent Design on Android?
  • And yet old Windows Phone can't get notification.
  • No one is using a WP with 7.5 or 8.0 on it anyway so it's a non issue that those platforms have had push notifications turned off!!!