Microsoft updates 'Metro-Style' Skype for better mouse, keyboard usage

 Microsoft has updated its Windows 8.1 'Modern' Skype app so that it works better for users interacting with it using mice and keyboards.

Microsoft rolled out a new version of Skype for "Modern" (a k a Metro-Style) Windows 8.1 users on May 7.

Just as the operating system group did recently with Windows 8.1 Update, the Skype team also is focusing on making the app easier to use for those using mice and keyboards.

From a blog post announcing the new 2.8 version:

"(T)he modern Skype is designed for touch but we know a lot of our users have mouse and keyboard devices. As a result we are tightening the space between your latest recent conversations, which brings forward the contacts list and makes navigation easier."

The Skype team said that the new Metro-Style version also will start up faster and load more quickly on Windows 8.1 devices. The team also improved favorites syncing across devices as part of the new release.

The updated Skype for 8.1 is available in the Windows app store.