Skype Preview now supports split screen on Surface Duo

Skype Insiders have some new features to play with, including using animated videos as backgrounds during calls.

What you need to know

• Skype Insider Preview was just updated to support split windows on Android.
• The update also adds support for animated backgrounds on calls.
• Skype on iOS also gained support for sharing files from chats in its latest preview build.

Microsoft just rolled out an update for Skype Insiders that brings several new features. It adds support for split windows on Android and lets iOS users share files from chats. The update brings Skype Insider Preview to build 8.74.76.129. Split window support should enhance the experience on devices like the Surface Duo.

Skype Insiders can also use animated videos as backgrounds now. The feature supports GIFs, allowing people to add more personal flair to video calls.

Here's the full changelog from Microsoft:

• Animated background for video calls! Just select GIF from local files and enjoy your new background.
• Customized Call Reactions – choose your personal set of reactions.
• Split Window on Android – because we want to improve your user experience for desktop-like environments. Supporting Surface Duo, Samsung DeX and most of the Chromebooks.
• Files sharing from chat in Skype for iOS.

An experienced powered by Microsoft Teams may be the new default chat app for Windows 11, but Skype is still used by millions of people. The features currently in testing among Insiders should help deliver a better experience across devices.

Skype Insider builds roll out gradually, so you might not see this update for a few days. You can sign up to be a Skype Insider for Windows, iOS, Android, Mac, Linux, and the web.

Skype Insider Preview

Free at Microsoft

You can test upcoming features for Skype through the Skype Insider Program. The link above has shortcuts to download the app for Windows, Android, iOS, and more.