Videoconferencing service Skype is working on a new video messaging option for its users that may roll out in time for the holidays, a tech site reported Tuesday.

 

The Verge quoted sources familiar with Skype’s plans that the feature may come out as early as October, with the video messaging similar to MMS.

 

“(It would allow) Skype users to send a prerecorded video message to contacts — available to play when the user next signs in,” it said.

 

According to The Verge, Microsoft had a similar “video messages” service for its now-defunct Windows Live product. Microsoft had formally acquired Skype in October 2011.

 

The Verge said Skype’s upcoming video messaging product is “similar in concept” to the Windows Live feature.

 

It added Skype’s recent beta of Microsoft Account integration is part of a process towards the new feature.

 

Also, The Verge said Microsoft is now pushing a new design style for Skype in the recent beta version.

 

“We’re told that this Metro-inspired design could go even further in future versions, but that Skype is testing the new UI across all of its clients. Alongside the new design tweaks, Microsoft will also launch a Windows 8 version of Skype shortly, with Outlook.com integration expected to be made available before the holidays too,” it said. — TJD, GMA News