Microsoft confirms the discontinuation of Skype services, shifting focus to Microsoft Teams. As a result, users will have two options: migrate their data and chats to Teams or export their information.
Skype, a pioneering video-calling service with hundreds of millions of users, is set to close in May 2025. Its owner, Microsoft, has announced that it will focus on its modern communications and collaboration hub, Microsoft Teams.
The Rise and Fall of Skype
Launched in 2003, Skype revolutionized the way people made phone calls over the internet. It allowed users to make ‘free computer-to-computer calls’ , making it a game-changer in the world of communication. However, as WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger gained popularity, Skype‘s user base began to dwindle.
Skype was first launched in 2003 by Niklas Zennström and Janus Friis.
The platform allowed users to make voice calls over the internet, revolutionizing long-distance communication.
By 2005, Skype had gained popularity worldwide, with over 100 million registered users.
In 2011, Microsoft acquired Skype for $8.5 billion, expanding its capabilities to include video conferencing and screen sharing.
Today, Skype is used by millions of people globally, offering a range of features including group calls, messaging, and file transfer.
Microsoft Takes Over
In 2011, Microsoft acquired Skype for $8.5 billion, its biggest-ever acquisition at the time. Despite efforts to integrate Skype with other Microsoft products like Xbox and Windows devices, the service struggled to regain its former glory.
The Shift to Teams
Microsoft has now decided to focus on Microsoft Teams, which offers many of the same features as Skype, including one-on-one calls, group calls, messaging, and file sharing. With Teams, users can also host meetings, manage calendars, and build communities for free.
Microsoft Teams is a communication and collaboration platform developed by Microsoft.
It integrates with the Office 365 suite, allowing users to access various tools and features in one place.
Teams enables real-time chat, video meetings, file sharing, and integrations with third-party apps.
With over 20 million daily active users, it has become a popular choice for businesses and organizations worldwide.
What’s Next for Skype Users?
During the transition period, users have two options:
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Move to Microsoft Teams: Over the coming days, Skype users will be able to sign into Teams using their Skype credentials. This will allow them to access their chats and contacts in Teams.
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‘Export Your Data’ : If you prefer not to migrate to Teams, you can export your data, including chats, contacts, and call history.
Skype was launched in 2003 by Niklas Zennström and Janus Friis.
Initially, it gained popularity as a platform for voice-over-internet protocol (VoIP) calls.
By 2011, Microsoft acquired Skype for $8.5 billion.
Today, Skype has over 300 million monthly active users worldwide.
It offers features such as video conferencing, screen sharing, and instant messaging.
According to a report by Statista, in 2020, the average user spent around 38 minutes per day on Skype.
The platform's accessibility and flexibility have made it a staple for both personal and professional communication.
How to Get Started with Teams
Moving to Teams is simple and doesn’t prevent you from continuing to use Skype during the transition period. To get started:
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Download Teams on your device from the official Microsoft Teams website
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Log in with your Skype credentials
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Start using Teams with all your Skype chats and contacts ready to go
Changes to Skype Paid Offerings
Moving forward, Microsoft will no longer offer paid Skype features to new customers, including Skype Credit and subscriptions that allow you to make and receive international and domestic calls. Current Skype subscription users can continue to use their Skype Credits and subscriptions until the end of their next renewal period.
A Farewell from Microsoft
Skype has been an integral part of shaping modern communications and supporting countless meaningful moments. Microsoft is honored to have been part of this journey and is committed to helping users stay connected in new and meaningful ways through Teams.
