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Microsoft is making Skype ad-free in an update that will rollout to users across all platforms soon. The update also includes improved AI image creation tools on Skype for Windows and macOS, and the ability to sign in automatically on iOS if you’re already signed into another Microsoft app.
“Our latest update removes all ads from Skype channels and the entire Skype platform, ensuring a smoother, decluttered and more enjoyable user experience,” says Skype product manager Irene Namuganyi.
The removal of ads in Skype means you’ll no longer see ads in the main chat interface, or in the channels section. Microsoft says it has listened to feedback around ads in Skype, and decided to “focus on your chats without any ad distractions, making your Skype experience cleaner and more user-friendly.”
The today section of Skype will remain though, complete with the news feed that’s powered by MSN. It’s a tab that I’m sure most Skype users ignore, but you can still disable this in Settings > Appearance if you want to get rid of it fully.
Here’s hoping Microsoft also listens to feedback about ads in Windows. The software giant has been adding malware-like Bing prompts, ads in the Start menu, and using plenty of tricks to try and get Windows users to switch to Edge.
Alongside the ad removal in Skype, Microsoft is also improving the AI image creation features inside the app on Windows and macOS. You’ll soon be able to quickly access the AI image creator inside chat windows, and AI-generated images will expand on click. Microsoft has also fixed up some UI elements, while also making the image creator feel more at home with Apple’s macOS design.
Microsoft is also bringing OneAuth integration to Skype for iOS, which allows you to sign into the app automatically if you’re already using another Microsoft app. If you’ve been having issues sending photos or videos over 5G with Skype, Microsoft has also fixed this bug in the upcoming update that will be available in the coming days.
