Microsoft has just pushed out a significant version change for the native Messaging + Skype apps for Windows 10 and Windows 10 Mobile.
The version jumps to 2.12.9011.0 up from 1.11.19004.0, which sounds like a new branch of the app to hopefully start adding new features. The update is also likely tied to the Windows 10 build 10586.29 update from last week.
There is no changelog associated with today's update and our cursory look at the builds in comparison to the older version revealed no obvious UI changes or new add-ons.
For now, we'll leave it in your hands to notice any improvements or changes. If you spot some, leave them in comments, and we'll verify and update this article.
Update: As noted in comments by Deaconclgi there are some minor UI changes, including
"The update includes UI refinements in "phablet mode" The contact circles are now a lot larger than before, showing fewer of them on the left side but making it easier to see. Also, and a big plus is that now there is a new UI element that overlays the contact circle to show which message thread is open. For example, if I click the second contact circle from the top, the circle is now enclosed in a dark square with a blue vertical line. This makes it easy to see which person you are replying to, an issue my wife pointed out yesterday."
Update 2: We can also confirm that the update brings animated emojis in Skype! Thanks, Akash S., for the tip!
Download Messaging + Skype for Windows 10 and Mobile
