Skype Will Finally Start Syncing Chat Messages Across Devices

If you use Skype on your phone and desktop, you know how annoying its inability to effectively keep your chat message status in sync between different machines can be. After you start Skype on your phone, for example, it downloads and alerts you of all of the sometimes hundreds of messages you’ve received since you last shut it down, even though you’ve long seen them on your desktop. Sometimes, this also means the app will be unresponsive for quite a while (or just crash).

Thankfully, it looks like those days will soon be over, as the Skype team today announced that it plans to roll out chat message status syncing across devices over the next few months.

“We are working to synchronize chat message status across all of your devices so you will know the current status of all of your chats on every device you use to interact with Skype.”

This news was buried deep in a summary of Skype’s most recent (and previously announced) architecture changes and releases.

As the Skype team notes, people now use Skype across multiple devices, so it has decided to finally make syncing a priority. It’s unclear when exactly this capability will start rolling out beyond Microsoft’s vague statement that it’s coming “over the next few months,” however.

Microsoft has recently poured a significant amount of resources into the Skype platform. Not only has it rolled out a new backend architecture that de-emphasizes the peer-to-peer nature of Skype in favor of more centralized services, but it’s also added a number of new features based on these changes.

For example, the company added web-based Skype support to Outlook.com and launched improved push notifications for Windows Phone 8 (even when the app isn’t running) and similar features that its more centralized architecture now enable. It’s also working on connecting the more consumer-focused Skype with its Lync communications suite for businesses.

Dell Inspiron One 2320 desktop targets families

If you are looking for a new desktop to replace your ageing one, then perhaps an all-in-one solution that is so in vogue these days might be right up your alley. We’re talking about the Dell Inspiron One 2320 desktop here, where it has been dubbed by Dell to be the “ultimate ‘stay-connected’ all-in-one desktop” which delivers the latest in entertainment and interactive experiences for your whole family.
It doesn’t matter if you’re fighting with the dog to prevent him from eating your homework, hence finishing it up on computer, or to keep track of household expenses and to prevent debt, the Dell Inspiron One 2320 is said to offer a little bit of something for everybody.

I must say that it looks pretty much like any other all-in-one machine out there, so the differentiating factor ought to be the kind of hardware that is implemented underneath the hood. We do know that this puppy will come in a choice of an Intel Core i5 or i7 processor, optional discrete graphics, an integrated HD webcam to help you stay in touch with family and friends from afar in high clarity, as well as Wi-Fi support to live out the wireless lifestyle.
Not only that, with a 23″ WLED display at 1,920 x 1,080 resolution, you will be able to watch all your favorite videos and review your photos in greater clarity than ever before. Of course, just to stay ahead of the competition, Dell even threw in the option to include touchscreen capability. Installed memory stands at 6GB, but that can be further expanded to 8GB, while it ships with a standard 1TB hard drive with the option to double that amount if your budget and needs permit.
Other connectivity options include HDMI-in connection and an 8-in-1 memory card reader. Your eyes won’t be the only ones in for a treat, as your ears will also be able to appreciate immersive SRS audio (with optional JBL speakers), and if you want to, you can also throw in the optional built-in TV tuner.
If you’re interested in the Dell Inspiron One 2320, then you can pick one up from $949.99 onwards.