Skype (preview) for Windows Phone 8 is now available

The events surrounding Windows Phone have been those of steady progress. With a summer of almost methodical leaks and updates culminating with the “grand unveiling” of Windows Phone 8 at the end of October along with AT&T unleashing the Nokia Lumia 920, Lumia 820 and Windows Phone 8X by HTC and Verizon opening preorders for their version of the HTC 8X and the Nokia Lumia 822.  Soon, T-Mobile will be carrying the HTC 8X, along with the Windows Phone 8S and Nokia Lumia 810.

Microsoft has set high-expectations with Windows 8 and Windows Phone 8, and Skype is part of those expectations. We knew the Skype was “coming soon” but still felt a little uncertain when AT&T opened their doors to the new Windows Phones and the Windows Phone Store had nary a trace of Skype to be found.

The wait is now all but over. Microsoft has released a preview release of Skype for Windows Phone 8. Naturally a Windows Phone 8 handset is required, and you should not expect a 100% polished experience according to the app notes. You may not be able to find it by searching for the app in the Windows Phone Store. The good folks at WPCentral generated a QR code which you can scan directly from your Windows Phone to find and download the application.

If you are the type of person who does not mind waiting for the final version, we provided some screen shots of what you have to look forward to.  Skype will fully integrate with your people hub, enable messaging even while on a call or video call, and provide a fully functional live tile.

Remember it is a preview version, so if you try it out, share with us any bugs or interesting things you discover.

source: WPCentral