Windows Phone 7 rumored to get a FaceTime function

It's possible an upgrade will give the phone a video chat application, but when that is coming remains to be seen.

A rumor claiming Microsoft will install a FaceTime-like feature on its Windows Phone 7 has surfaced. Neowin is reporting that at a “high profile” CES event, a Windows Phone employee mentioned developers were interested in created a program similar to FaceTime that would pair with Microsoft Live services, as well as with MSN Messenger.

If you’re thinking Skype seems like an easy alternative, the insider reportedly claimed this new application “will reach beyond the hand of Skype.” When such an update would launch is unknown, but we wouldn’t rule it out as a new feature included in Windows Phone 8 – which the rumor says could come with a front-facing camera. The screenshot below containing the registry keys within Windows Phone 7 shows that the hardware alteration is in the works. TechTree claims the image comes courtesy of former Microsoft Silverlight Program Manager Justin Angel.

Mobile World Congress 2011 will take place next month in Barcelona, and it’s possible Microsoft will make an official announcement about updates or even the next generation of the Windows Phone. While there’s been no word from the company on when to expect any phone upgrades, BGR was able to spot a slip on Microsoft’s site (see below), leading many to believe something’s scheduled for this month. A video chat application is most likely further down the line, but for now you can expect to see the copy-and-paste functionality mentioned in Microsoft’s keynote, as well as improved app and game startup speeds.