Skype for Desktop vs Skype Modern App

Hairy Scot

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I have always used Skype for Desktop and only recently found that there is a Skype Modern App on my system.
From what I have read it would seem the best plan would be to ditch the App and just continue with the desktop version.
Have there been any recent changes that would make the the Modern App a better solution than the Desktop version?
 

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They have updated it recently so it doesn't continue to ring even when you have answered the desktop version which is why I uninstalled it in the first place. This means in theory you could install both and answer whichever you felt like at the time.

I prefer the look of the desktop version personally so I never re-installed the Modern App version.
 

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  • OS
    Windows 10 Pro Prieview x64
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    MacBook Pro Core2Duo
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    ATI Radeon X1600
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I couldn't get Skype App to work properly at all, either it looses sound, or camera or would not connect. Also interferes with desktop version if both are installed.
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Windows 8.1 Pro
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
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    Home made
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    AMD Ryzen7 2700x
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    Asus Prime x470 Pro
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    16GB Kingston 3600
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    Samsung 960 evo 250GB
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As an addition to the OP's post (I'm not a Skype user so bear with me), if I understand correctly, with the Desktop app you can set it to automatically run in the background when you start your computer (so people know you're online and can call you, etc.). Does the Skype metro app automatically run in the background as well, so you can receive calls, messages, etc. whenever your computer is on and also people know when you're online?
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Win 8 64-bit
As an addition to the OP's post (I'm not a Skype user so bear with me), if I understand correctly, with the Desktop app you can set it to automatically run in the background when you start your computer (so people know you're online and can call you, etc.). Does the Skype metro app automatically run in the background as well, so you can receive calls, messages, etc. whenever your computer is on and also people know when you're online?
Yes. They are the same in that regard - they both start up and sign you in automatically when you turn on your computer (assuming you ask them to).
 

My Computer

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  • OS
    Windows 10 Pro Prieview x64
    Computer type
    Laptop
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    MacBook Pro Core2Duo
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    T7600
    Memory
    3
    Graphics Card(s)
    ATI Radeon X1600
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    Internal
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    1440 x 800
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    40GB
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I think the Skype for desktop allows for more control over the options.
 

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As an addition to the OP's post (I'm not a Skype user so bear with me), if I understand correctly, with the Desktop app you can set it to automatically run in the background when you start your computer (so people know you're online and can call you, etc.). Does the Skype metro app automatically run in the background as well, so you can receive calls, messages, etc. whenever your computer is on and also people know when you're online?
Yes. They are the same in that regard - they both start up and sign you in automatically when you turn on your computer (assuming you ask them to).

Thanks. Does it work that way even if you're using a Local Account (and just use the 'Sign into each app separately instead' option) instead of using a Microsoft Account to log into Windows?
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Win 8 64-bit

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Windows 10 Pro Prieview x64
    Computer type
    Laptop
    System Manufacturer/Model
    MacBook Pro Core2Duo
    CPU
    T7600
    Memory
    3
    Graphics Card(s)
    ATI Radeon X1600
    Monitor(s) Displays
    Internal
    Screen Resolution
    1440 x 800
    Hard Drives
    40GB
    Keyboard
    Apple
    Mouse
    Apple
    Internet Speed
    Varies
    Browser
    Various
    Antivirus
    Defender
There are two flavors of many applications - Desktop and Tile (it hasn't been called metro for a while and I don't knw what to call it, so Tile works for me :))

You can use either one that suits your computing preference.

As far as Skype goes though.... I couldn't get the Tile to run either. I was mucking about my system (only 4 days on 8) and might have tripped something up)

You can sign in to Skype for Desktop with either a Microsoft Account or use the ID and password you used before (or create a new login and password - I think)
Skype is still a stand alone application, but MS is trying to meld it into Windows (they acquired it a few years ago and so far they haven't changed it too much - some cosmetic changes to meet the MS look and feel).
 

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    Win8.1 Pro | Win10TP Pro - boot to VHD
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    HP Pavilion dv6-c610us
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    AMD VISION A6-3420M Quad-Core (2.4GHz/1.5GHz)
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    HP
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    6GB DDR3 SDRAM (2 DIMM)
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    HP 2072a (20" LED)
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    Logitech K520 (wireless bundle)
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    IE 11 (default) & Pale Moon
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    HP product specs:

    http://support.hp.com/us-en/product/HP-Pavilion-dv6-6c00-Entertainment-Notebook-PC-series/5191856/model/5218495/document/c03138553/
I couldn't get Skype App to work properly at all, either it looses sound, or camera or would not connect. Also interferes with desktop version if both are installed.
Could you please give some examples of this interference? I have never noticed anything although I use them both simultaneously, always when I am online. Normally I have Skype App signed in to one Skype account (the one connected to my Windows sign in Microsoft Account), the desktop version to another Skype account which is very practical if you are using multiple Skype accounts. Also when I have them both logged in to same Skype account, I have never noticed any interference.

Thanks. Does it work that way even if you're using a Local Account (and just use the 'Sign into each app separately instead' option) instead of using a Microsoft Account to log into Windows?
Don't know - I use a microsoft account. Apparently not though...

sign in to skype without using a microsoft account - Skype Community
The modern Skype app supports login only with the Microsoft account.

It is totally possible to use Skype when signed in to Windows 8 or later using a local account. See tutorial: http://www.eightforums.com/tutorials/43112-skype-app-use-local-account-windows-8-a.html


There are two flavors of many applications - Desktop and Tile (it hasn't been called metro for a while and I don't knw what to call it, so Tile works for me :))
The apps are called Modern or Store Apps.

Kari
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Windows 8.1 Pro with Media Center
    Computer type
    Laptop
    System Manufacturer/Model
    HP ENVY 17-1150eg
    CPU
    1.6 GHz Intel Core i7-720QM Processor
    Memory
    6 GB
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    ATI Mobility Radeon HD 5850 Graphics
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    Beats sound system with integrated subwoofer
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    17" laptop display, 22" LED and 32" Full HD TV through HDMI
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    1600*900 (1), 1920*1080 (2&3)
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    Internal: 2 x 500 GB SATA Hard Disk Drive 7200 rpm
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    50 MB VDSL
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    Maxthon 3.5.2., IE11
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    Windows in English, additional user accounts in Finnish, German and Swedish.
Don't know - I use a microsoft account. Apparently not though...

sign in to skype without using a microsoft account - Skype Community

It is totally possible to use Skype when signed in to Windows 8 or later using a local account. See tutorial: http://www.eightforums.com/tutorials/43112-skype-app-use-local-account-windows-8-a.html

It was your tutorial that initially led to my question. However, it wasn't a case of whether you can use the Skype app with a local account, but whether you can set it to automatically run in the background as well, so you can receive calls, messages, etc. whenever your computer is on and also people know when you're online.

With the desktop version it seems you can set it to automatically run in the background so it's always running when you start your computer, but looking around it appears it's not possible to do this with the Skype app?
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Win 8 64-bit
.....
There are two flavors of many applications - Desktop and Tile (it hasn't been called metro for a while and I don't knw what to call it, so Tile works for me :))
The apps are called Modern or Store Apps.

Kari

Thanks Kari, I'll start using Modern. I actually came across that reference while reading up - too lazy to edit my post. :p

Bill
 

My Computer

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  • OS
    Win8.1 Pro | Win10TP Pro - boot to VHD
    Computer type
    Laptop
    System Manufacturer/Model
    HP Pavilion dv6-c610us
    CPU
    AMD VISION A6-3420M Quad-Core (2.4GHz/1.5GHz)
    Motherboard
    HP
    Memory
    6GB DDR3 SDRAM (2 DIMM)
    Graphics Card(s)
    AMD Radeon HD 6520G Discrete-Class Graphics
    Monitor(s) Displays
    HP 2072a (20" LED)
    Screen Resolution
    1600 x 900
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    Hitachi 640GB (5400 RPM)
    Seagate 2 TB external
    WD 500 GB external
    Keyboard
    Logitech K520 (wireless bundle)
    Mouse
    Logitech M310 (wireless bundle)
    Browser
    IE 11 (default) & Pale Moon
    Other Info
    HP product specs:

    http://support.hp.com/us-en/product/HP-Pavilion-dv6-6c00-Entertainment-Notebook-PC-series/5191856/model/5218495/document/c03138553/
To be frank, I tried Metro Skype as soon as I started using full Win8.. after few betas and RC. As I use Skype many years and have it's own account (before MS took over). First it would not connect and insisted on making new account, somehow got it working and had troubles with sound and camera. So I installed desktop version and that one would not work properly until I uninstalled Metro version. After that I didn't even try it any more. When somthing is trouble, get better thing and moove on, no use fighting loosing battles. I use another 2 programs for VOIP so all is good without insisting on something else.
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Windows 8.1 Pro
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    System Manufacturer/Model
    Home made
    CPU
    AMD Ryzen7 2700x
    Motherboard
    Asus Prime x470 Pro
    Memory
    16GB Kingston 3600
    Graphics Card(s)
    Asus strix 570 OC 4gb
    Hard Drives
    Samsung 960 evo 250GB
    Silicon Power V70 240GB SSD
    WD 1 TB Blue
    WD 2 TB Blue
    Bunch of backup HDDs.
    PSU
    Sharkoon, Silent Storm 660W
    Case
    Raidmax
    Cooling
    CCM Nepton 140xl
    Internet Speed
    40/2 Mbps
    Browser
    Firefox
    Antivirus
    WD
Don't know - I use a microsoft account. Apparently not though...

It is totally possible to use Skype when signed in to Windows 8 or later using a local account. See tutorial: http://www.eightforums.com/tutorials/43112-skype-app-use-local-account-windows-8-a.html

It was your tutorial that initially led to my question. However, it wasn't a case of whether you can use the Skype app with a local account, but whether you can set it to automatically run in the background as well, so you can receive calls, messages, etc. whenever your computer is on and also people know when you're online.

With the desktop version it seems you can set it to automatically run in the background so it's always running when you start your computer, but looking around it appears it's not possible to do this with the Skype app?

The Skype App works in the background by default. You don't have to do anything else than set it up once.

Here's an example:

My Skype App is set up, it's using the Skype account associated with my Windows 8.1 sign in Microsoft Account. I have not launched it, nor have I set it to run when I sign in to Windows. It runs as a background app by default.

I have also the Skype Desktop app on and running, using another Skype account. I of course do not normally use two accounts to call to myself ;) but with this, two accounts simultaneously online, I can show you how the Skype App works.

So, although the Skype app is not even running, when a call comes you can hear the Windows notification tone and see this:

2014-06-17_19h49_08.png

Chat messages, too give a notification alarm tone and can be seen at top right:

2014-06-17_20h00_39.png

If you have been away from your PC some time it's a good idea to check the Skype App itself for any messages and / or calls while you were away; the notification will only be visible a few seconds and you have no indicators in notification area that you have unanswered / unseen Skype calls or messages.

Kari
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Windows 8.1 Pro with Media Center
    Computer type
    Laptop
    System Manufacturer/Model
    HP ENVY 17-1150eg
    CPU
    1.6 GHz Intel Core i7-720QM Processor
    Memory
    6 GB
    Graphics Card(s)
    ATI Mobility Radeon HD 5850 Graphics
    Sound Card
    Beats sound system with integrated subwoofer
    Monitor(s) Displays
    17" laptop display, 22" LED and 32" Full HD TV through HDMI
    Screen Resolution
    1600*900 (1), 1920*1080 (2&3)
    Hard Drives
    Internal: 2 x 500 GB SATA Hard Disk Drive 7200 rpm
    External: 2TB for backups, 3TB USB3 network drive for media
    Cooling
    As Envy runs a bit warm, I have it on a Cooler Master pad
    Keyboard
    Logitech diNovo Media Desktop Laser (bluetooth)
    Mouse
    Logitech MX1000 Laser (Bluetooth)
    Internet Speed
    50 MB VDSL
    Browser
    Maxthon 3.5.2., IE11
    Antivirus
    Windows Defender 4.3.9431.0
    Other Info
    Windows in English, additional user accounts in Finnish, German and Swedish.
The only issue I had was that the store app would continue to ring if you answered the desktop app (both using the same account). This was fixed some time last year though.
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Windows 10 Pro Prieview x64
    Computer type
    Laptop
    System Manufacturer/Model
    MacBook Pro Core2Duo
    CPU
    T7600
    Memory
    3
    Graphics Card(s)
    ATI Radeon X1600
    Monitor(s) Displays
    Internal
    Screen Resolution
    1440 x 800
    Hard Drives
    40GB
    Keyboard
    Apple
    Mouse
    Apple
    Internet Speed
    Varies
    Browser
    Various
    Antivirus
    Defender
To be frank, I tried Metro Skype as soon as I started using full Win8.. after few betas and RC. As I use Skype many years and have it's own account (before MS took over). First it would not connect and insisted on making new account, somehow got it working and had troubles with sound and camera. So I installed desktop version and that one would not work properly until I uninstalled Metro version. After that I didn't even try it any more. When somthing is trouble, get better thing and moove on, no use fighting loosing battles. I use another 2 programs for VOIP so all is good without insisting on something else.
Let me just check I got you right: Back in Windows 8 (we are now in 8.1 Update 1), you thought that your Skype desktop app did not work properly because of Skype Modern App, so you uninstalled the latter.

And based on that onetime experience, you tell the OP it "interferes with desktop version if both are installed", as a fact, not "in my opinion it interferes" or "I think it can interfere" but really as a proven fact.

OP, two different Skype apps do not interfere with each other. You can use them simultaneously, both signed in to the same Skypoe account or like I use them, both signed in to different Skype accounts.

Kari
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Windows 8.1 Pro with Media Center
    Computer type
    Laptop
    System Manufacturer/Model
    HP ENVY 17-1150eg
    CPU
    1.6 GHz Intel Core i7-720QM Processor
    Memory
    6 GB
    Graphics Card(s)
    ATI Mobility Radeon HD 5850 Graphics
    Sound Card
    Beats sound system with integrated subwoofer
    Monitor(s) Displays
    17" laptop display, 22" LED and 32" Full HD TV through HDMI
    Screen Resolution
    1600*900 (1), 1920*1080 (2&3)
    Hard Drives
    Internal: 2 x 500 GB SATA Hard Disk Drive 7200 rpm
    External: 2TB for backups, 3TB USB3 network drive for media
    Cooling
    As Envy runs a bit warm, I have it on a Cooler Master pad
    Keyboard
    Logitech diNovo Media Desktop Laser (bluetooth)
    Mouse
    Logitech MX1000 Laser (Bluetooth)
    Internet Speed
    50 MB VDSL
    Browser
    Maxthon 3.5.2., IE11
    Antivirus
    Windows Defender 4.3.9431.0
    Other Info
    Windows in English, additional user accounts in Finnish, German and Swedish.
It is totally possible to use Skype when signed in to Windows 8 or later using a local account. See tutorial: http://www.eightforums.com/tutorials/43112-skype-app-use-local-account-windows-8-a.html

It was your tutorial that initially led to my question. However, it wasn't a case of whether you can use the Skype app with a local account, but whether you can set it to automatically run in the background as well, so you can receive calls, messages, etc. whenever your computer is on and also people know when you're online.

With the desktop version it seems you can set it to automatically run in the background so it's always running when you start your computer, but looking around it appears it's not possible to do this with the Skype app?

<snip>

So, although the Skype app is not even running, when a call comes you can hear the Windows notification tone and see this:


Ah, that was the bit I wasn't sure about because I was thinking without the Skype app running it wouldn't be able to receive calls/messages or show that you're online. So presumably it must do it through some host process in the background, instead of directly through the Skype app?
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Win 8 64-bit
Yes. Only thing you have to do is to set it up once. Launch it, go through the very short and simple setup process and forget it. I included my Taskbar in the screenshots so that you can see the Skype app is not running yet I am able to receive calls and chats. In 8.1 Update 1 it would be shown in Taskbar if running:

2014-06-17_20h47_57.png
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Windows 8.1 Pro with Media Center
    Computer type
    Laptop
    System Manufacturer/Model
    HP ENVY 17-1150eg
    CPU
    1.6 GHz Intel Core i7-720QM Processor
    Memory
    6 GB
    Graphics Card(s)
    ATI Mobility Radeon HD 5850 Graphics
    Sound Card
    Beats sound system with integrated subwoofer
    Monitor(s) Displays
    17" laptop display, 22" LED and 32" Full HD TV through HDMI
    Screen Resolution
    1600*900 (1), 1920*1080 (2&3)
    Hard Drives
    Internal: 2 x 500 GB SATA Hard Disk Drive 7200 rpm
    External: 2TB for backups, 3TB USB3 network drive for media
    Cooling
    As Envy runs a bit warm, I have it on a Cooler Master pad
    Keyboard
    Logitech diNovo Media Desktop Laser (bluetooth)
    Mouse
    Logitech MX1000 Laser (Bluetooth)
    Internet Speed
    50 MB VDSL
    Browser
    Maxthon 3.5.2., IE11
    Antivirus
    Windows Defender 4.3.9431.0
    Other Info
    Windows in English, additional user accounts in Finnish, German and Swedish.
To be frank, I tried Metro Skype as soon as I started using full Win8.. after few betas and RC. As I use Skype many years and have it's own account (before MS took over). First it would not connect and insisted on making new account, somehow got it working and had troubles with sound and camera. So I installed desktop version and that one would not work properly until I uninstalled Metro version. After that I didn't even try it any more. When somthing is trouble, get better thing and moove on, no use fighting loosing battles. I use another 2 programs for VOIP so all is good without insisting on something else.
Let me just check I got you right: Back in Windows 8 (we are now in 8.1 Update 1), you thought that your Skype desktop app did not work properly because of Skype Modern App, so you uninstalled the latter.

And based on that onetime experience, you tell the OP it "interferes with desktop version if both are installed", as a fact, not "in my opinion it interferes" or "I think it can interfere" but really as a proven fact.

OP, two different Skype apps do not interfere with each other. You can use them simultaneously, both signed in to the same Skypoe account or like I use them, both signed in to different Skype accounts.

Kari
First, it was not "one time experience" tried to make it work few days and only after I urgently needed it I installed desktop version and when even that one wouldn't work properly, changing few versions etc. I uninstalled Metro one. Desktop version worked fine after that. Heard of few complaints about newest desktop versions would not work so I worked up to newest one and none of them gave me any grief, so it will stay like that. Have no will to experiment with Metro version any more. They can keep it. At no time I had any of them start automatically or tried both at same time.
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Windows 8.1 Pro
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    System Manufacturer/Model
    Home made
    CPU
    AMD Ryzen7 2700x
    Motherboard
    Asus Prime x470 Pro
    Memory
    16GB Kingston 3600
    Graphics Card(s)
    Asus strix 570 OC 4gb
    Hard Drives
    Samsung 960 evo 250GB
    Silicon Power V70 240GB SSD
    WD 1 TB Blue
    WD 2 TB Blue
    Bunch of backup HDDs.
    PSU
    Sharkoon, Silent Storm 660W
    Case
    Raidmax
    Cooling
    CCM Nepton 140xl
    Internet Speed
    40/2 Mbps
    Browser
    Firefox
    Antivirus
    WD
I need help setting up my Skype desktop account (xyz username and password) I used on an old computer with Windows Vista, to my new computer with Windows 8.1. I prefer the layout of the desktop version and secondly all my business connections are associated with that account. My new Skype app account is set up through Microsoft on Windows 8.1 under my NEW name, USER ID AND PASSWORD.

THANKS,

DJEHUTY
 

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  • OS
    Windows 8.1
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    System Manufacturer/Model
    ASUS/R503U
    CPU
    AMD E2 - 1800 APU with Radon (tm)
    Motherboard
    64-bit Operating System, x64-based processor
    Memory
    2.00 GB (1.59 GB usable)
    Graphics Card(s)
    HD Graphics 1.7 GHz
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    Firefox, IE
    Antivirus
    Avast
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