After been around for more than two decades, Microsoft Skype will officially shut down on May 5, 2025.
Microsoft, which acquired Skype in 2011 for $8.5 billion, announced that it will retire the service to focus on its flagship video-conferencing platform, Microsoft Teams.
Skype, founded in 2003 by a group of engineers in Estonia, it was a pioneer in making telephone calls using the internet instead of a landline and the platform quickly became a household name playing a key role in popularising VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) technology, enabling businesses and individuals to connect around the world with minimal costs.
However, in recent years, Skype has struggled to keep up with easier-to-use and more reliable rivals such as FaceTime, Messenger, Teams, WhatsApp and Zoom.
Microsoft’s decision to discontinue Skype is part of a broader effort to prioritize artificial intelligence features within Teams.
What’s Next for Skype Users
During this transition period, users have a choice:
Move to Microsoft Teams for Free
Over the coming days, Microsoft will roll out the ability for Skype users to sign into Teams (free) on any supported device using their Skype credentials, starting today with those who are part of both the Teams and Skype Insider programs.
By logging in to Teams with a Skype account, chats and contacts will automatically appear in the app so you can quickly pick up where you left off.
During the transition period, Teams users can call and chat with Skype users and Skype users can do the same with Teams users which helps ensure you can stay connected with everyone, regardless of the platform you’re using during this transition.
Export your Skype Data
If you prefer not to migrate to Teams, you can instead export your data including chats, contacts, and call history.
Skype will remain available until May 5, 2025, giving users time to explore Teams and decide on the option that works best for them.
How to Get Started with Teams for Free
Moving to Teams is simple and doesn’t prevent you from also continuing to use Skype during the transition period.
Here’s how to get started:
- Download Teams on your device from the official Microsoft Teams website
- Log in with your Skype credentials.
- Start using Teams with all your Skype chats and contacts ready to go.
Changes to Skype Paid Services
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.
Skype Credit users can also continue to use their remaining Skype Credit.
After May 5, 2025, the Skype Dial Pad will be available to remaining paid users from the Skype web portal and within Teams.
