‘Based on customer feedback, we are extending support for Skype 7 (Skype classic) for some time,’ Microsoft wrote on its community forum. ‘Our customers can continue to use Skype classic until then.’
Good news, Skype users. Microsoft heard your complaints about Skype 8 and has decided to re-think its plans to end support for Skype 7 (aka Skype classic).
The reversal comes after the software giant last month rolled out Skype 8, an updated version of the chat platform, and said it would end Skype 7 support on Sept. 1. Now, that plan has changed.
“Based on customer feedback, we are extending support for Skype 7 (Skype classic) for some time,” Microsoft wrote on its community forum. “Our customers can continue to use Skype classic until then.”
The software giant didn’t specify what, exactly, it means by “some time.” But, at least for now, fans of Skype Classic can breathe a sigh of relief.
Launched on July 16, Skype 8 offers new features such as a chat media gallery that lets you find files, links, and photos shared in a conversation; @ mentions; customizable themes; and the ability to “express your feeling through emoticons during video calls or by reacting to messages in conversations.”
While Microsoft says it offers “the look and feel of Skype you love” many users disagree. Since it was released, Skype have flocked to Microsoft’s community forum to complain about Skype 8 and beg the company to continue supporting Skype 7.
“Since the latest upgrade… I cannot help but be incredibly frustrated,” one user wrote on July 21. “The audio/video controls have been stripped and I cannot make necessary adjustments according to the environment I am in. The picture is grainy and blown up which leaves the opposing party out of proportions and unable to be seen clearly. The users on the other end see the same as me – half of me at best.”
Other users have complained that the Skype 8 interface “is not user friendly,” and you can’t copy and paste a string of messages, search your chat history, or jump to an old chat conversation like you can in Skype 7.
“Skype 8 is the most abyssmal [sic] UI I’ve ever seen in a so called ‘improved’ version of Skype,” one user wrote. “Why can’t we keep Skype Classic?’
Fortunately, Microsoft listened to those users and Skype 7 will live on for the time being.
