Microsoft bins Windows 8 Skype app

Microsoft has announced it is simplifying Skype users' PC experience by retiring the Windows modern Skype app, opting to support the desktop app instead.

"With the upcoming release of Windows 10 for PCs, it makes sense to use the Skype application optimised for mouse and keyboards use, capable of doing touch as well rather than 2 separate applications performing the same function," the company says in a blog post.

Microsoft wants to optimise all apps for mouse and keyboard use as well touchscreen for Windows 10 release on July 29. Skype is the first app to go through this process.

Come July 7, PC users of the modern application will be redirected to the desktop application. The desktop application is available now to download. All contacts and conversations from the last 30 days will be available, the company says.

Users will be able to login using their Skype username and password, or their Microsoft Account credentials.

Users who already have Skype for Windows desktop do not need to do anything, the blog explains.

There are no changes in store for users on a Windows RT tablet device.

"You may be thinking, what about Skype built into Messaging, Phone and Skype video coming to Windows 10? Don't worry, we will begin rolling out the apps to get your feedback later this year," the company says.

"This way if you want to quickly make a call or send a message you can use task based apps and for those of you power users who like the advantages of the all in one app, you can pick what's right for you.

As reported by TechDay last week, Microsoft made the beta version of Skype for Web available worldwide, allowing users to connect without having to download the Skype app.