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"Skype, the Microsoft-owned internet telephony company, has today (November 12) announced the availability of a preview version of the &amp;#039;Skype for Windows Phone 8&amp;#039; app. Users of smartphones running the Windows Phone 8 operating system can now try out the Skype app.   In this preview, they will get access to all the core features of Skype but in a redesigned user interface more closely integrated with Microsoft&amp;#039;s latest mobile software.  Skype for Windows Phone 8 offers an &amp;#039;always on&amp;#039; experience, meaning the app still functions even when it is not actively being used.  Set as a &amp;#039;live tile&amp;#039; on the user&amp;#039;s Windows Phone 8 Start Screen, the Skype app will display the latest notifications, such as messages and missed calls.  Users can now start a conversation with their Skype contacts direct from the People Hub, and the system offers a combined contact list with any friends on Windows Live Messenger, &amp;gt; Windows Phone 8 review - improved but still lacking the app factor &amp;gt; Holly Willoughby stars in Windows Phone 8 advert - watch &amp;gt; Skype for Windows 8 launches Windows Live Messenger will be shut down by Microsoft next year and replaced by Skype Messenger.  If you have Windows Phone 8, go to the Windows Store and download &amp;#039;Skype for Windows 8 Preview&amp;#039; today. You will receive an update with the full version as soon as it is available.  Microsoft is asking for feedback via Twitter, Facebook and The Skype Support Network from anyone who tries out the app preview.  "^^<http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema#string>
<http://www.digitalspy.com/tech/news/a437473/skype-app-for-windows-phone-8-launches-in-preview/>