Microsoft reprieves old Skype

Microsoft has reversed its decision to close the ‘Classic’ version of Skype, pleasing users who didn’t want to switch to the new update (version 8).

It means you can continue to use the older Skype even after the new version launches in September.

While the new version adds some useful features, such as the ability to drag and drop files up to 300MB into chats (see Workshop, Issue 534, page 35), it removes other popular tools, including opening chats in separate windows - known as the ‘split window’ view (see screenshot).

Many users also dislike its design, complaining that it looks like an enlarged phone app, rather than a program purpose-built for a computer’s desktop.

In a post on the Skype forums ( www.snipca. com/28741) Microsoft said: “Based on customer feedback, we are extending support for Skype 7 (Skype classic) for some time. Thanks for all your comments - we are listening. We are working to bring all the features you’ve asked for into Skype 8. Watch this space”.

The announcement was welcomed by users on the forum, with one member called Jplit saying “Whoopee! We’re all watching - let’s hope what you have to offer in the near future is a decided improvement on the impoverished Skype you were about to offer!”

Microsoft hasn’t confirmed how long it will support Skype 7, but given the scale of the backlash it’s likely to continue at least until it updates Skype 8 with the tools it initially removed.