windowslogo

Confirming what we all pretty much knew already – Skype will be available for Windows 8 when it releases to the public this week.

The Skype for Windows 8 Unveiled story at the Microsoft News Center gives just a small amount of detail including this description and several screenshots of the app:

The release focuses on delivering an experience that is simpler, faster and easier to use. Skype for Windows 8 includes top Skype features like IM, audio and video calls. It also takes advantage of some of the new features and functionality of Windows 8 that put people front and center; including integration in to the People Hub, ability to pin favorite contacts as a tile for easy access and the Skype Live Tile that shows messages and notifications right on the Start Screen.

Skype for Windows 8 Screenshots from Microsoft:

Windows8StartScreenW_WebSkypeforWindows8Vide_Web
SkypeforWindows8Dial_WebSkypeHomeScreen_Web
SkypeforWindows8Chat_WebSkypeVideoCall_Web
SnapandMultitaskWith_Web 

The screenshots do show off the ability to snap the app and still do others things on the OS while the app is running or you are in a call.

As a podcaster I am very curious how this will impact my ability to record interviews via Skype as we move forward.