Microsoft has inadvertently leaked plans to release a new chat app for iPhone called Flow, which will allow users to have “rapid email conversations.” The service will be a part of Outlook, but it will focus on quick communication with “no subject lines, salutations, or signatures.”
Flow sounds a lot like any other instant messaging service, but the way in which it will tie into Outlook will make it somewhat unique. Flow conversations will appear in your inbox alongside the rest of your email, allowing you to use either application to continue your conversations.
While inside the Flow app, however, you’ll only see Flow conversations, so you won’t be bogged down by the rest of the clutter that’s sent to your email address.
Flow gives Outlook users a more casual way to communicate with the people who are closest to them, such as friends and relatives, where the formalities usually associated with email — particularly those that are work-related — aren’t necessary. In turn, it makes the Outlook service more personal.
While Flow may be a lot like existing instant messaging apps like WhatsApp, Viber, and Facebook Messenger, then, it may be a more convenient solution for those who are already tied to Outlook.
Microsoft hasn’t made Flow official yet, but it did publish a description of the app on a public download page marked “Microsoft Confidential.” Twitter user @h0x0d managed to grab a screenshot before it was taken down.
Screenshot: @h0x0d
It’s still unclear when Flow will be available, then, or whether it will eventually support other platforms. It’s interesting that Microsoft seems to be making the service available on iPhone first, rather than integrating it into its upcoming Windows 10 upgrade. But we can’t complain.
Source: h0x0d
Via: The Verge
Killian Bell is a freelance writer based in the U.K. He has an interest in all things tech and also covers Android over at CultofAndroid.com. You can follow him on Twitter via @killianbell.
2 responses to “Microsoft leaks its brand new chat app for iPhone”
“It’s interesting that Microsoft seems to be making the service available on iPhone first, rather than integrating it into its upcoming Windows 10 upgrade.”
Seeing Microsoft excitedly debut software for an Apple product does have a very Twilight Zone vibe. Like in what world would a giant like Microsoft create something that progresses Apple’s agenda?!
I still can’t get over Microsoft having both an iPad and iPhone on full display at their recent Build conference. Apple may show that iCloud storage and iTunes works for Windows but when it comes to demo time they focus on their hardware.
Booorrrring… (bye bye Microsoft)