Skype will be shutting down on May 5, 2025. Microsoft is replacing it with Microsoft Teams Free, and users must migrate their data before the shutdown.
Microsoft has officially announced that Skype will be shutting down on May 5, 2025, after more than two decades of service. The once-dominant VoIP platform, known for revolutionizing online communication, is being phased out in favor of Microsoft Teams Free.
Users can continue using Skype until the shutdown date, but after that, all services will be permanently discontinued. Microsoft is encouraging existing Skype users to migrate to Teams Free, which will allow them to retain their contacts, chat history, and group conversations. Those who do not wish to use Teams will have the option to export their data manually before the deadline.
Microsoft Confirms Skype Shutdown on X (Twitter)
Microsoft officially confirmed the end of Skype in a post on X (formerly Twitter), stating:
“Starting in May 2025, Skype will no longer be available. Over the coming days, you can sign in to Microsoft Teams Free with your Skype account to stay connected with all your chats and contacts. Thank you for being part of Skype.”
Starting in May 2025, Skype will no longer be available. Over the coming days you can sign in to Microsoft Teams Free with your Skype account to stay connected with all your chats and contacts. Thank you for being part of Skype pic.twitter.com/EZ2wJLOQ1a
— Skype (@Skype) February 28, 2025
This announcement marks the end of an era for Skype, which was one of the first mainstream platforms to popularize video calls, VoIP, and instant messaging. However, in recent years, Microsoft has been gradually shifting its focus toward Teams, and this shutdown confirms its long-term strategy.
What Will Happen to Skype Users?
Skype users will have two options before the shutdown takes effect:
1. Migrate to Microsoft Teams Free
Microsoft has made the transition process seamless. Users can log into Teams Free using their existing Skype credentials, which will automatically transfer their:
- Contacts
- Chats and message history
- Group conversations
There is no need to create a new account, and users will be able to continue conversations on Teams without losing their previous messages.
2. Export Your Skype Data
For those who do not wish to migrate to Teams, Microsoft is providing a data export tool that will allow users to download their Skype chat history, photos, and other media before the shutdown.
This is essential for users who want to keep a record of past conversations or backup their data before Microsoft removes all access to Skype servers.
Microsoft has confirmed that Skype will remain online until May 5, 2025, so users have roughly 60 days to decide whether they want to switch to Teams Free or export their data.
Microsoft Is Removing Skype’s Calling Features
One of the biggest changes in this transition is the removal of Skype’s telephony services. Microsoft has confirmed that Skype’s calling features, which allow users to make domestic and international phone calls, will no longer be supported.
Key Changes to Skype Calling Features
- Skype Numbers will no longer be supported – Users who have a Skype Number must port their number to another provider before the shutdown.
- Skype Credits will expire – Users with existing Skype Credits will be able to use them until their next subscription renewal period, but no new credits will be issued.
- Teams Free will not include phone calls – Microsoft is not offering traditional calling features in Teams Free, as it is shifting entirely to VoIP-based communication.
According to Amit Fulay, Vice President of Product at Microsoft, the reason behind this decision is declining usage trends for Skype’s calling services.
“Part of the reason is we look at the usage and the trends, and this functionality was great at the time when VoIP wasn’t widely available and mobile data plans were expensive. If we look at the future, that’s not a thing we want to be in.”
This means that Skype’s legacy role as a phone replacement service is officially coming to an end. Users who rely on Skype’s paid calling features will need to find an alternative VoIP service before May 5.
Why Is Microsoft Shutting Down Skype?
Microsoft acquired Skype for $8.5 billion in 2011, but in recent years, it has failed to keep up with competitors such as:
- Zoom
- FaceTime
- Messenger
During the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, many expected Skype to dominate the video conferencing market, but instead, users flocked to Zoom, which provided a simpler interface and better reliability.
According to Jeff Teper, President of Microsoft 365 Apps, the shift in user behavior is one of the main reasons behind Skype’s shutdown.
“The world has really moved on. Higher bandwidth and lower data plan costs have shifted most users to VoIP.”
Microsoft has been gradually phasing out Skype in favor of Microsoft Teams, which has gained massive adoption in both business and consumer markets.
In December 2024, Microsoft stopped selling Skype Credits and phone numbers, signaling that the shutdown was coming.
What Will Replace Skype?
Microsoft is positioning Microsoft Teams Free as the replacement for Skype, offering features such as:
- Instant messaging and group chats
- Video and voice calls
- File sharing and collaboration
- Integration with Microsoft 365 apps
However, unlike Skype, Teams Free will not support calling landlines or mobile numbers. Microsoft has no plans to bring telephony features to Teams, meaning users will need to find an alternative VoIP service if they still require phone calls.
What Should Skype Users Do Now?
If you are a Skype user, you should take action before May 5, 2025, to avoid losing access to your data.
Steps to Prepare for Skype’s Shutdown
- Log into Microsoft Teams Free using your Skype account to migrate your contacts and messages.
- Export your chat history and media if you prefer not to switch to Teams.
- Port your Skype Number to another provider if you need to keep your phone number.
- Use any remaining Skype credits before they expire at the end of your next billing cycle.
The shutdown of Skype marks the end of an era for one of the most influential communication platforms of the internet age.
Microsoft is making the transition to Teams Free as smooth as possible, but users who relied on Skype’s phone calling features will need to find an alternative service before May 5, 2025.
If you still use Skype, make sure to migrate or export your data before the shutdown to avoid losing your chats, contacts, and important conversations.
Leave a Comment