Microsoft Corp. has updated the iOS Skype app to now include Siri integration and CallKit features that are available with Apple’s latest operating system for iPhone and iPad: iOS 10.

In addition to these new features, there are also new updates coming for business users on Skype, including better messaging and VOIP features, a version of Skype for Business for Mac users, as well as real-time translation.

Skype for iOS 10 features

You can download the latest version of Skype from the App Store.

Make Skype calls with Siri

Thanks to SiriKit, which Apple introduced at WWDC in June, making Skype calls just got easier. As long as you have the relevant Skype contact information saved on your iOS device, you can simply tell Siri, “Call Lucy Archer.” Siri and Skype will then take over and connect your call.

Note: Just like a normal call, Siri may ask you to confirm it has the correct contact before connecting the call.  

Integrated Skype contacts

With the updated version of Skype for iOS 10 all your Skype contacts will be integrated into your iOS device. This means you can start a Skype video call, audio call, or instant message without having to open the Skype iOS app first.

Regular call experience

The updated version of Skype also takes advantage of CallKit within iOS 10. This means that incoming Skype calls on your iOS device will show up like regular calls on your Lock screen. Using the built-in iOS functionality, you can now easily switch between Skype and regular calls.

Skype for Business

In October, Skype for Business iOS will also become a better messaging and VoIP app. Users will get to enjoy the features of SiriKit and CallKit, allowing enterprise users to make seamless calls with Siri while at the same time enjoying the regular call experience.

Both Cisco Systems Ltd. and Vonage Holdings Corp. made use of SiriKit and now allow enterprise users to make seamless calls on their iPhone using the digital assistant. Read our article for other great iOS 10 features for enterprise users.

Skype for Business for Mac

In addition to the new iOS 10 features for Skype for Business, Microsoft announced at its Ignite event this week that Skype for Business for Mac will be available globally next month. Skype for Business for Mac, which has been in preview since May, “provides high-definition audio and video, in addition to features like one-click join for meetings and edge-to-edge video and desktop sharing to make full use of a screen,” according to Gurdeep Singh Pall, Microsoft corporate vice president for the Skype team.  

Skype made it easier for small business to conduct virtual meetings and teleconferences, with the introduction of Skype Meetings in July. The free service allows meetings with up to ten participants for the first 60 days, after which that number drops to three unless users select to pay for more.

Real-time translation and transcription

By the end of the year, the Skype team will also release a preview of real-time transcription and translation in Skype Meeting Broadcast for Office 365 business users. It will provide live captions for presentations spoken in English, Spanish, Simplified Chinese and German, with more languages to be added during the preview.

Images via Microsoft