Microsoft launches Skype Lite for India

Microsoft has launched Skype Lite, a new version of the video and voice-calling app designed for the Indian market. The new app download weights in at 13MB, which is designed to work better on 2G or unstable connections, making it more reliable in many parts of India.

According to Microsoft, Skype Lite will consume less battery power and run smoothly even on old Android phones, and there’s a mode that reduces data usage in video calls. The app works with SMS, too, and is available in nine languages.

Aadhaar is a 12-digit national identification number system widely used in India. Microsoft integrates it directly into Skype Lite for people to securely identify themselves. The data can be accessed for verification during a call and deleted once it’s finished.

Skype Lite comes as many tech giants are focusing their efforts on India, a potentially huge growth market. Among other initiatives, Google recently rolled out YouTube Go, an India-focused version of the video app that — like Skype Lite — concentrates on improving the experience in areas where reliable, fast connectivity isn’t a given. Apple, meanwhile, is set to start manufacturing iPhones in India soon.