Microsoft this week released an enhanced version of Skype.
Called Skype Mingo, it's available in alpha form to Android users through the Google Play Store. But be warned, it's listed as an "unreleased app" and therefore could be unstable once installed on your device.
The experimental service—"your ultimate communications hub"—builds on existing Skype features, such as Internet video and voice calls, to provide native calling, contacts management, and SMS.
Mingo looks to be a step towards Microsoft offering a Skype service that's universally available and indistinguishable across any and all devices.
On Windows PCs, Microsoft introduced SMS Relay back in September, which used to be called Messaging Everywhere. It offers an SMS service by relaying text messages from your PC through a mobile device. According to the MSPowerUser blog, Mingo will eventually integrate the SMS relay functionality, which simply suggests Microsoft wants text messaging to be a fully integrated and seamless service across desktops and mobile.
There is no timeline for Mingo's full release. But it seems the all-in-one service will cater to developing markets, where data is often limited and costly. According to the Google Play release notes, Skype Mingo is "small and fast," with a set of features that "helps you save money."
Consumers can tap into "thousands" of Skype bots, including new additions that make it easier to plan travel, buy concert tickets, and even chat with Spock, second-in-command of the USS Enterprise.
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Redmond's prototype app, meanwhile, could go head-to-head with Facebook's Messenger and WhatsApp entities, which are already popular options for text, voice, and video conversations on the go.
"As part of the ongoing improvements to deliver the best Skype experience possible, we are always innovating and occasionally test out new features and functionality," a Microsoft spokeswoman told PCMag in a statement.
Editor's Note: This story was updated at 11:30 a.m. ET with comment from Microsoft.