Microsoft's Skype For Business Officially Lands On iOS
Microsoft is officially launching the public version of Skype for Business on iOS. iPhone and iPad users can now download the full version of the updated messaging app.
The Oct. 14 rollout follows a preview period of roughly two months. Skype for Business went into preview on both iOS and Android devicesback in August.
Now, after undergoing reviews from Microsoft's tester base, the app is ready for public use. The new app promises to simplify navigation and to resolve the sign-in problems of Lync 2013 on iOS9.
[What's inside Windows 10 Insider Build 10565?]
An updated Skype dashboard displays a contact search bar, upcoming meetings, and list of recent conversations that took place across devices. This means you can search your address book, catch up on old chats, and RSVP to events with a tap, without the hassle of jumping from page to page.
When it's time to chat, you'll see a full-screen video with bigger buttons to mute, add participants, and manage your call. You can simultaneously view shared content and speaker's video through the app.
Microsoft promises that future updates to Skype for Business will bring the ability to see PowerPoint slides during a video call. Right now, you can only view PowerPoint slides via desktop sharing.
Skype for Business on iOS brings a security boost to Office 365 customers, who now have access to Active Directory Authentication Library-based (ADAL) security. IT administrators have the option to set up multi-factor authentication, which would require users to receive a call, text message, or app notification after entering their username and password.
(Image: Microsoft)
The app is now available for download as a universal app on iTunes. iPhone users running Lync 2013 will be automatically upgraded to Skype for Business; iPad users with Lync 2013 will need to download the app from iTunes.
Skype for Business was made generally available to Office 365 customersearlier this year. Android users are still in preview mode. A full release for the platform is expected later in 2015.
Microsoft is continuing its pattern of making its apps available for iOS and Android devices. Office 2016 for Mac was released before Office 2016 for Windows. Cortana is expected to appear on both competitor platforms.