Skype Preview for Windows 10 has been given a new Windows Insiders Program update today. The Universal Windows Platform (UWP) app is being bumped to version 11.9.256.0 on the Fast Ring. Windows Insiders can test a number of new features with this release.
Microsoft has given a web link feature to the Skype Preview app. This gives users the ability to preview websites and show them through sent or received links. The app now also supports more streaming media support. This means with version 11.9.256.0 the app lets users stream media from third-party providers.
Lastly, Skype Preview for Windows 10 scores a test video function. Users can access this feature by heading to Audio & Video test options.
As this is a preview, you will need to be a Windows Insider and on the Fast Ring to get version 11.9.256.0. Microsoft's Skype Preview app has been available away from the Insider Program for a few months. It made its full Windows 10 debut with the Anniversary Update, which arrived on August 2.
Users need the Anniversary Update to run the Skype Preview app, which unifies Skype once again into a single service. We expect version 11.9.256.0 to move quickly through the Windows Insider rings and reach Windows 10 proper soon.
This week, Microsoft debuted the Skype Insider Program. Like the company's other insider initiatives, the program lets users see Skype features early and provide feedback on them. However, Microsoft will continue to send Skype Preview builds through the Windows Insider Program.
Long term Skype Preview Plans
One of the most interesting things about Skype Preview is that it is a universal app. As a Microsoft Universal Windows Platform service, it works across PC, mobile, HoloLens, and PC. However, an intriguing report last month suggests the service could become truly universal.
Microsoft is reportedly working on a single Skype experience that would function equally on all platforms. At the moment, the Skype experience on Android is different to the one on iOS, for example. The differences are measured in nuance, but they are there.
The company is said to be working towards making Skype the same and Skype Preview is likely the seed of that.
