Skype brings picture in picture video calls to Android tablets

For Skype's latest Android update, the company turned to an unlikely source of inspiration: parent company Microsoft's Windows 8.1 OS. Specifically, the Skype team wanted to achieve a Snap View-like feature for Android tablet users and that's just what's rolling out to users today.

The new picture-in-picture option allows callers to continue browsing the web, reading email or even playing Candy Crush on their slates while they video chat away. A new pinch to browse alphabetically feature has also been bundled into the update, making it far easier to locate contacts without endlessly scrolling through a list.

Existing Skype users should see the update hitting their Android devices soon though, take note, smartphone users will only benefit from included stability and bug fixes.


Engadget

The best tablet deals of the week

Tablets may not be on your shopping list this holiday season, but there are a few tempting specials that may make you reconsider. This year's Nexus 7 model sees a $50 price cut with three other options for slate-style media consumption to help avoid annoying relatives in a couple weeks. Be sure to visit our product database to monitor prices on these gadgets and more as they move around. Join us and add the gadgets you're shopping for to your "Want" list; every time there's a price cut, you'll get an email alert!



Nexus 7 (2013)
Price: $179 (regularly: $229)
Buy: Office Depot

Google's 7-inch slate has had the attention of the Android faithful since its arrival a few months back. Unskinned Android and solid performance earned the tablet a 91 Engadget Global Score. And the device just got an update to 4.4.2, bringing all KitKat's features.



ASUS Transformer Pad Infinity (TF701T)
Price: $400 (regularly: $450)
Buy: Amazon

We first caught a glimpse of the Transformer Pad Infinity back in June, and our editors were immediately smitten with the tablet's crisp 299 PPI display for viewing Android apps. Once more, a current-gen slate has nabbed a $50 discount -- in case the recipient craves the freshest tech.




Barnes & Noble Nook HD+
Price: $149 (regularly: $269)
Buy: Office Depot

Shopping for someone special who isn't concerned with the latest and greatest but is after a reading device with a bit more to offer? The Nook HD+ is worth a look, especially at this price. In addition to sorting that personal library, apps from Google Play are available on-screen as well.



Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 7.0
Price: $130 (regularly: $250)
Buy: MacMall

For those after a smaller slate, the Galaxy Tab 2 7.0 's price tag is now checking in at a 90-day low. Reliable performance and solid battery life are in play for all of those Android-powered exploits. However, you'll want to keep in mind that Samsung has discontinued this particular model.


Source: Engadget