Skype Updated For iOS 9 With Split View, Slide Over, And Notification Replies

Microsoft has just released an updated version of the Skype app for iPhone and iPad to take advantage of several new iOS 9 features. Skype version 6.3 is now available on the App Store, and introduces support for Slide Over and Split View on the iPad, along with the ability to reply directly from message notifications on both the iPhone and iPad, similar to how Apple's default Messages app works.

With Split View, iPad users can have two apps open simultaneously, side-by-side on the screen, with the option to resize one larger than the other. Slide Over allows a second app to slide out from one side of the screen, allowing quick a brief interaction before returning the primary open app.

Skype says it imagines these two features working when people are planning activities or sharing things like pictures or web links. Instead of having to jump back and forth between apps, users can send messages and reply while still using a second app.

Notification replies allow users to type a reply directly from the notification bar at the top of the screen when an incoming message arrives, as well as from the notifications on the lock screen. Skype has also added support of iOS 9's Spotlight search, so searches for contacts will include results from Skype, with a single tap needed to open a chat.

SOURCE Skype