Skype, the once-popular voice-over-internet app, is officially being retired by Microsoft. After years of being the go-to platform for online calls, Skype will now be replaced by Microsoft Teams starting May 5. This marks the end of an era for Skype, which was launched in 2003 and became synonymous with video calls. However, with the rise of apps like Zoom during the pandemic, Microsoft has made the decision to move on.
Users will be prompted to transition to Microsoft Teams
Microsoft is making efforts to ensure a smooth transition for Skype users. In the coming days, users will have the option to sign into a Microsoft Teams account and easily import their Skype chats, contacts, photos, and call history. Additionally, users who wish to move away from Skype can export their data for local download. Microsoft has also developed a tool that allows users to view their Skype chat history after the shutdown. During the transition period, Skype and Teams will be interoperable, meaning messages sent on Teams will still be visible on Skype.
No more Skype calls
While Microsoft will honor existing Skype credits and subscriptions, phone calls will no longer be supported once Teams takes over. Paid Skype features will also be discontinued, and existing subscribers will not be able to renew their plans. To assist customers during this transition, the Skype dial pad will be available on the Skype web portal and within Teams after the shutdown.
Microsoft’s decision to retire Skype follows a previous move in December where they phased out new Skype Credit sales and the Skype Number feature. The company hopes to migrate most Skype users to Teams but emphasizes that users have control over their choices. If Teams is not your preferred option, there are alternative free video calling apps to consider, such as those recommended by PCMag.
