Microsoft is working hard to make the introduction of their new operating system a success, and adding Skype functionality to Windows 8 may be a very big step for them. Skype is a voice over internet service that is owned by Microsoft, and allows people to communicate by voice and video for free within the system, and you can use Skype to contact others on traditional telephone networks as well.
Skype will be available for download from the Windows Store on Oct. 26th, the day for general release of the operating system to the public. Once installed, you will get a new tile for the Skype application on your Start UI.
In this version of Skype, you will be able to stay connected, even if you shift focus to other applications. Skype will run in the background, with little drain on the battery according to the Skype developers.
Skype is also integrated into the People application seen in the new Start UI. It is supposed to work like a "cloud-connected address book", showing all your social contacts.
You can find more details for this release at the Skype blog.
