By Dave Parrack
Microsoft has launched a new version of Skype aimed at people in developing countries. Skype Lite strips everything about the messaging app back to make it more accessible to people with older handsets and/or limited internet connections. Unfortunately, you probably can’t use it yet.
Skype Lite is the latest in a succession of lightweight apps aimed at developing countries. With Skype Lite, Microsoft is following in the footsteps of Facebook Lite, Messenger Lite, and YouTube Go, all of which do a similar job. And you can expect even more companies to follow suit. Facebook Lite: Is It a Worthy Facebook Replacement?Facebook has announced a new Android app called Facebook Lite, which is a version of Facebook built from scratch to work smoothly with poor data connections and low-end phones.READ MORE
Optimized for Developing Countries
Skype Lite offers the same core features as its bigger brother, but is optimized for use in developing countries. This means it can be used over 2G, and remain stable even when your internet connection falters. You can also read and reply to message over SMS.
Skype Lite weighs in at just 13MB to help conserve space on older handsets. It’s also designed to consume less battery power and help you reduce data usage when chatting via video. Files sent during conversations are compressed to further lessen data usage.
Skype Lite is only available on Android in India right now, with Microsoft launching the new app at its Future Decoded event in Mumbai. Microsoft stated that Skype Lite was “built in India, for users in India”. However, Microsoft is likely to expand its availability to other countries in the future.
Download Skype Lite From Google Play
If you’re located in India you can download Skype Lite from the Google Play Store right now. The rest of us will have to wait until Microsoft decides if and when we’re worthy of receiving Skype Lite. Thankfully there are already a host of other free Skype alternatives available. Fed Up With Skype? Here Are 6 of the Best Free AlternativesAre you frustrated with Skype and searching for alternatives? One of these fantastic video chat and calling apps available on almost all platforms can help you make the switch.READ MORE
Do you have Skype installed on your phone? Would you prefer a strpped-down alternative such as Skype Lite? Do you think these lightweight apps are the future? If you’re in India and using Skype Lite, what do you think of it? Please let us know in the comments below!
Image Credit: Per-Olof Forsberg via Flickr Source: www.makeuseof.com
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