Windows Phone 7 Mango Handsets to Feature Skype Integration, Microsoft Confirms

Microsoft has confirmed that new Windows Phone handsets that launch with the upcoming Mango version of this operating system will feature Skype integration and front-facing cameras.

The announcement came yesterday, Aug. 24, at the TechEd event in New Zealand. In addition, two employees revealed that Microsoft’s Lync VoIP client will soon expand to other platforms, including Android, iOS and Symbian. 

While the audience was assured Skype integration on Windows Phone 7.5 handsets would be coming soon, an exact date was not revealed. It is not clear if the video calling component will appear at the same time as the Mango update, which is set for a week from today, or if it’ll be a separate app or a future update. 

What is certain, however, is a new collection of smartphones powered by Windows Phone Mango will come equipped with front-facing cameras and might be revealed as soon as next week. Perhaps the HTC Eternity and HTC Omega will feature the video-call-friendly front-mounted cameras, as these handsets are rumored to debut at the phone-maker’s London event on Sept.1. 

Skype integration on Windows Phone handsets comes of no surprise since the acquisition of the video calling company by Microsoft back in May for $8.5 billion.