Finally, the wait is over! Skype beta version for Windows Phone has just been announced through official channel and Nokia MWC press event. Ever since the acquisition of Skype, Microsoft was expected to provide a dedicated Skype video calling app to the WP users. With over 200 million users Skype is the best bait for Microsoft to expand its range of services.

Now, Skype has received Metro design makeover. Released as a beta version, Microsoft is playing safe before releasing the final version for the public consumption. Many of you would be thinking that Skype will work on front-facing camera empowered handsets only, this is not the case however. Allegedly, Skype video calling also works with rear-camera, which is nice addition since most of the first generation Windows Phone handsets doesn’t have front-facing camera.

Skype for Windows Phone

Skype makes it tad easy to keep in touch with friends and family members. Users can make free audio and video call through either 3G/4G and WiFi network. Skype is exclusive to the following handsets only,

• Nokia Lumia 710
• Nokia Lumia 800
• HTC Titan
• HTC Radar
• Samsung Focus S
• Samsung Focus Flash

It is not know whether it will be integrated right into the OS or not. Only the time will tell whether Apollo will come along with Skype app or not. As of writing this article, I have also tested with HTC Mozart and it works flawlessly.

Marketplace Description

• Make and receive voice/video calls and instant messages to anyone else using Skype, whether on a Windows Phone, iPhone, iPad, Android phone, Mac, PC or television.
• Use your Skype account for free at home, at work, or on-the-go (WiFi connection or mobile data plan required).

Since the Skype for Windows Phone app is in beta phase, you may encounter some unknown unforeseen bugs. Not to forget that it is a free application.

Download Skype beta from marketplace