A few weeks ago, Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) revealed multiple new features introduced to outlook.com, as one of the competitive moves against Hangouts.
Some of the new features will allow for more integration with Skype. The new changes will be piloted among a few users before it can be rolled out to the entirety. One of the most noticeable features that have been added includes the ability to see which users are online.
Users can click on the avatar icons on the right side of their device where the list of friends is located. This will allow them to initiate a conversation or chat. Additionally users can see their most recent conversations on the side. Users can also synchronize their messages across multiple devices for more convenience. Additionally the service is convenient because users can access it from any location on any device.
Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) as established the need to take advantage of their own messaging platform to give users a quick link to their conversations as they check their emails. These features will allow Skype to compete with Hangouts. Hangout has become increasingly popular due to its ability to link its email messaging platform with regular service provider messages, thus bringing more convenience to users.
The company has already initiated the roll out process to the targeted pilot group. This will allow Microsoft to gauge how the service performs and how users respond to it. It will be released to all the other users in the next few months.
So far, Skype has experienced phenomenal success in the worldwide market but has been under constant pressure from new startup services with more creative features. Thus the need for Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) to revamp it and introduce something new. This move will, therefore, allow the company to keep up with the competition as they contemplate what to introduce next.
On the other hand, Outlook.com will most likely receive more following that will increase its presence as an email platform. Gmail has been the king of the game so far.
