Microsoft is putting Skype to work in your inbox after the Redmond-based company announced the rollout of a preview version of Skype for Outlook.com which brings the voice and messaging service to its email service.
The service is being introduced to users in the UK, with the US and Germany following “in the coming weeks”, with Microsoft promising that it will be available to all Outlook.com users worldwide “in the coming months”. Skype for Outlook.com will provide the full range of Skype services: voice calls, video calls and messaging.
Once a user links their Outlook.com account with Skype, they will be prompted to install a plug-in for Internet Explorer, Chrome or Firefox which enables the integration.
Announcing the tie-in, Microsoft explains that — as the old BT adverts used to say — ‘it’s good to talk’, and the new service is designed because a call is very often preferable to an email:
“Even with the best email service, sometimes text isn’t enough. We all face those situations where it’s just easier to jump on a call to talk something through. Sometimes that quick call can accomplish more than a long email reply. That’s why we are bringing Skype audio and video calling to your Outlook.com inbox.”
The company has provided a sneak peak at what users can expect in this video:
The 💜 of EU tech
The latest rumblings from the EU tech scene, a story from our wise ol' founder Boris, and some questionable AI art. It's free, every week, in your inbox. Sign up now!
Headline image via Justin Sullivan / Getty Images
Get the TNW newsletter
Get the most important tech news in your inbox each week.