Microsoft has confirmed that it will retire Skype on May 5, 2025, marking the end of an era for the pioneering internet calling service. Launched in 2003, Skype transformed the way we communicate, making it easy to connect with friends and family worldwide. However, as technology has advanced (and after failed attempts to reinvent the platform), Microsoft has decided to focus on its newer platform, Microsoft Teams.
Options for Skype users
If you have a Skype account, Microsoft will offer two options. The first option is to export your data containing your message history, group chats, and contacts. The download will also include your photos shared in the platform.
The second choice is to log in with your Skype account to the Microsoft Teams app to continue on this platform with your data transferred automatically.
Transition to Teams
Microsoft is making the announcement now to give users enough time to decide whether to switch to Teams or export their data.
If you decide to continue with Microsoft Teams (free), consider that some Skype features will no longer be available. For example, users will lose the telephony feature that allows them to make domestic as well as international calls with Skype credits. However, you will be able to use any unused credits until the next renewal cycle.
Skype phone number
If you have a Skype phone number, you will have to transfer it to another calling provider. Also, the company will allow users to continue accessing the Skype Dial Pad through Teams temporarily for existing credits and subscriptions. However, you won’t be able to purchase any calling plans.
On the other hand, the free version of Microsoft Teams takes the familiar core of Skype, including one-on-one and group calls, messaging, and file sharing. Also, it offers free meeting hosting, calendar management, and community tools.
Reasons for Skype to shutdown
Skype was founded in 2003 by Niklas Zennström and Janus Friis. In 2005, eBay acquired the platform, then sold a majority stake (65%) to an investor group that included Silver Lake, Andreessen Horowitz, and the Canada Pension Plan Investment Board, and then Microsoft acquired Skype for $8.5 billion in 2011.
Over the years, services like Facebook Messenger, Apple FaceTime, and WhatsApp have been the platforms of choice for the majority of people to communicate, and with the decline in the number of calls through Skype phone numbers, Microsoft has decided to terminate the service.
Skype for Business will continue
It’s important to note that Microsoft is retiring the consumer side of Skype as the “Skype for Business” service is separate and won’t be affected by this change.
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