Microsoft has announced shutting down Skype on May 5, 2025, ending support for the long-running video-calling platform. The decision aligns with the company’s broader strategy to focus on a unified platform — Microsoft Teams. Additionally, it no longer believes that it needs Skype, hence providing ample amount of time to users to shift to Teams. The tech giant’s strategic move, however, did not come all of a sudden. It was announced earlier this year.
Who Will Be Affected?
The closure of popular video-calling platform, Skype, will affect regular users, both free and paid versions, except Skype for Business. Microsoft has clarified that it will stop offering Skype’s paid features to new customers. This includes Skype Credit and subscriptions for domestic and international calls. Users must note that existing credit and active subscriptions remain unaffected until the end of the next renewal cycle.
How To Switch To Microsoft Teams?
Microsoft has explained that Skype users can easily migrate to Teams, using their existing Skype IDs. They will not face any major difficulty logging in and can transfer chats and contacts effortlessly. Both platforms offer similar features such as direct and group calls, messaging, and file sharing. Meanwhile, the company’s motive behind the move is clear – to focus on Microsoft Teams (free), modern communications and collaboration hub.
Alternatives Options
Users must also note that there are a variety of options across the web if they do not wish to switch to Teams. Applications such as Zoom, Google Meet, Discord, Viber, Webex Meetings, and FaceTime offer similar features to Microsoft Skype and Teams.
