Skype is Officially Dead After 20 Years of Service

Microsoft has officially discontinued Skype, ending support for the communication platform that played a major role in shaping online voice and video calling over the past 20 years. Users are now being transitioned to Microsoft Teams (free) as Skype’s features are phased out.

Skype users can sign in to Microsoft Teams using their existing credentials. Contacts and chat history will migrate automatically to the new platform. However, some functionality is being reduced. Teams’ free version limits group video calls to 60 minutes, and it does not support pay-as-you-go calling or SMS via Skype Credit.

Microsoft has set a deadline of January 2026 for users who wish to export their Skype data. After that, all remaining user data will be permanently deleted. Users are advised to download important information before the cutoff date.

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Microsoft cited a need to streamline its consumer communications services as the reason for discontinuing Skype. The company has been focusing on developing Microsoft Teams as a unified platform for messaging, video calls, and collaboration.

Launched in 2003, Skype quickly became known for enabling free or low-cost voice and video calls over the internet. Microsoft acquired Skype in 2011, integrating it into its software ecosystem. Over time, however, Skype lost ground to newer communication tools such as Discord, Google Meet, etc.

Skype’s shutdown marks the conclusion of a service that was once central to personal and business communication. While it will no longer be available, it will always be remembered as an old household name for voice calling online.