IM+ gets updated and optimized for Windows 8.1, now live in the Store

When it comes to instant messaging these days, there'due south really only one "all in one" app out in that location, and that'due south IM+ from Shape. The app has received numerous updates over the last few years and they're i of the many companies who are fully on board with Microsoft and their Windows / Windows Telephone vision.

IM+, both the Pro and Lite versions, accept received updates today bringing them upwardly to Windows 8.1 standards. Don't forget, in 8.i developers have a few new tools to take advantages of, including a new tile size ("large") and the updated "snap view", which has been replaced in 8.1 with a more than flexible organization.

So what'south new in IM+ for Windows viii.1? Let's take a await at the total changelog equally we have all of the details.

i. Optimization of all UI elements in Windows 8.ane

"In Windows 8 the application has two modes - full screen and 320 px snap view. Now in Windows 8.1 IM+ applications are optimized so they tin can be resized the way you desire.

In Windows 8 yous had to go back to full screen mode in lodge to send a file or emoticon. At present in Windows 8.1. the small snap view of IM+ app is 100% functional.

The emotions' push are moved to the dialogue carte du jour and will remain at the same place when you modify the application's window size. Other UI elements like "file attach" volition alter their location depending on the app window size you fix.

Flexibility of app's window size and it's full functionality are the most convenient features. Yous volition exist able to customize laptop's desktop the all-time mode yous adopt, for example chatting with friends and working in Net Explorer and Discussion certificate without hiding one of the apps. "

two. New Pocket-size and Big tiles

"Now, in Windows eight.ane. you tin can set up 4 types of tiles. IM+ apps are adopted for all of them."

Wide Tile
Big Tile which will show several recent IM+ letters in the window simultaneously
Medium Tile which is a ¼ part of usual broad tile
Small-scale Tile which reminds usual icon.

3. New set of emoticons in IM+ app.

"New set up of emoticons recently were added to Windows Phone mobile devices, now they are likewise supported for Windows 8.one."

4. Show or hide mobile status for ICQ Accounts.

"Ability to enable / disable Mobile status for ICQ contacts."

5. Bulletin queue.

"In other words while 1 of the accounts in IM+ app is being reconnected, all your letters will be successfully delivered to you ."

6. Support of MSN contacts in Skype

7. Performance improvements and problems fixes

Overall, it's a solid update to what is already a neat, universal app and we actually enjoy the new 8.ane features. The app works especially well on tablets, like the Surface 2 and even when working at a desktop (we run it snapped at i/five size on our 27-inch monitor).

For those who aren't familiar with IM+, it connects to many chat services, including Windows Live Messenger, Facebook, Skype chat, Google Talk, AOL/AIM/iChat, Yahoo!, ICQ, Vkontakte, Post.Ru Agent, Odnoklassniki, Yandex chat, Mamba.Ru, Mig33, SINA Weibo, Renren, Fetion, Gadu-Gadu, MeinVZ and Jabber. Then instead of having multiple web clients open, you lot can accept everything centralized in an excellent looking Modern UI app.

If on Windows 8, had to the Store to pick upward version i.7 of IM+ Pro ($4.99) here or IM+ Lite (free) hither.

We may earn a committee for purchases using our links. Learn more.

The problem for a consumer HoloLens was always the lack of Windows Phone

History catches upwardly

The trouble for a consumer HoloLens was ever the lack of Windows Phone

What is the time to come for Microsoft (and Windows) mixed reality? The latest report from Business Insider sheds some light, but this all comes back to ane major problem for Microsoft: No mobile Windows OS. Only what about a future headset that is cloud-based? Some thoughts on what could happen for Microsoft mixed reality.