How to use compatibility mode to run the new Skype Preview on your Windows 10 PC

Microsoft released its mobile inspired Skype preview app for Windows users today, but there’s a slight problem. If you’re using Windows as Microsoft intended it, that is, with Windows 10 being automatically updated to the latest version, you won’t be able to get this new version of Skype. You can try out the Skype Windows 10 App, or the traditional Skype desktop app, but this particular preview will remain out of reach. This is because Microsoft intends for you to use the new Skype app built on UWP technologies, rather than legacy Win32 apps. Fortunately, with a little arm twisting, you can get a taste of the new Skype without needing to switch to MacOS or a lower version of Windows.

Here’s how to run it using compatibility mode.

1. Download the new Skype from https://go.skype.com/windows.preview.download
2. In your downloads folder, right click on Skype Preview and navigate to Properties
3. Navigate to the Compatibility sub-menu under Properties.
4. Under the “Run program in compatibility mode for…” drop down, select Windows 8.
5. You should now be able to install the new Skype on your WIndows 10 PC, Aiversary Update or higher.

Give it a try and let us know what you think in the Idea below.