If you are unfamiliar with Highlights, it was a mobile-only Skype feature that borrowed heavily from SnapChat’s Stories. However, users were clearly unimpressed by the feature. Microsoft says it has removed Highlights from Skype on iOS and Android. This is an embarrassing situation for sure, but the company is hiding the removal by saying it was seeking to simplify Skype: “We heard your feedback and have taken a step back to simplify Skype,” the Skype team explained on the Microsoft Community website. “With this approach you’ll see that we’ve removed the Highlights feature. We now have very focused navigation with Chats, Calls, and Contacts, making it even easier for you to engage on Skype.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?list=PLaLRbjVhH6kJyDzo1_aFwpumdgsQaHsol&v=qItfRVJFljM Highlights was previously accessed through its own icon in the app. Users could swipe up to call the camera, a more intuitive and rapid action which is part of Microsoft’s “camera-first” design. Once a photo is taken, the image was editable with text, decorations, or other integrations. These images can be shared with group contacts or individuals.
Other Skype Changes
So, Skype on iOS and Android now has an easier to navigate UI. Microsoft also announced Skype 8.29.0.41 for public release. This latest update brings private conversations to all platforms. Announced earlier this month, private conversations bring end-to-end encryption to Skype. Users can enter into chats that have end-to-end encryption for audio, text, and file exchanges. Video calls are not supported. Also unveiled with this update is a new Skype icon. Users won’t see a drastic difference, but there is a different shade of blue.
