According to a blog post by Skype, call recording and support for hardware devices are some of the most widely used third-party features. However, chat functionality is definitely on its way out. Cameras, headset and phone sets along with other hardware with Skype functionality will continue to function, at least till Skype can “determine alternative options or retire the current solution”.
“The current Desktop API extensibility model wasn’t built for the cloud connected world – as extensibility is only available on the Windows Desktop and Mac clients, leaving the Windows 8 store app, mobile apps, web experiences, and Xbox out of the [always] connected experience,” Noah Edelstien of Skype wrote, explaining the service’s decision to kill the API. “The extensibility model of running only on one type of end point needs to evolve to benefit from this new design pattern.”
Skype users were in for a rude shock last month when the popular VoIP service announced that support for the Desktop API was being pulled in December 2013. The software is being replaced by a cloud-based system now, in order to deliver better functionality across all platforms, especially on mobile devices. “As people are using Skype on more devices, we’re also working hard to create a more familiar and consistent Skype experience across all major platforms. The Desktop API was created in 2004 and it doesn’t support mobile application development. We have, therefore, decided to retire the Desktop API in December 2013,” Skype’s support page explains.
