Microsoft has officially ended support for Skype after 22 years of service, marking the end of an era for one of the most recognizable names in digital communication. As of May 5, 2025, Skype has been shut down, and the company will now focus entirely on Microsoft Teams, its modern, business-centered collaboration platform.
reminder: Microsoft is killing off Skype today. It’s being retired in favor of Microsoft Teams www.theverge.com/news/621353/…
— Tom Warren (@tomwarren.co.uk) May 5, 2025 at 1:58 PM
The End of a Communication Giant
Skype was once the gold standard in online communication. Launched in 2003 and acquired by Microsoft in 2011 for $8.5 billion, the app allowed users to make free voice and video calls, send instant messages, and share files—features that were revolutionary at the time.
Despite its early success and massive user base, Skype gradually fell out of favor. Microsoft introduced Teams in 2016, which integrated chat, meetings, file sharing, and productivity tools in a unified platform. As Microsoft invested more heavily in Teams, Skype’s development slowed, and the app became increasingly outdated compared to competitors like Zoom, Discord, and WhatsApp.
From 300 Million to 36 Million Users
Skype’s decline has been long but steady. At its peak, the platform boasted over 300 million active users, but by 2023, that number had dropped to just 36 million daily users. The final shutdown, announced earlier this year, came as no surprise to industry watchers—but it still marks a sentimental moment for those who relied on Skype for personal and professional conversations.
What Happens to Skype Users?
For those still using Skype, there’s a silver lining. Microsoft has made it possible to migrate existing Skype accounts to Microsoft Teams, including conversation logs and contact lists. While it remains unclear if users can transfer data to other platforms, services like Discord, Zoom, and Google Meet are now dominant alternatives in both personal and professional spaces.
Alternatives and What’s Next
For gamers, remote workers, and long-distance families, alternatives to Skype are plentiful. Discord remains a top choice for gamers and communities, while Zoom and Google Meet serve both casual and enterprise users. Microsoft Teams, although more business-oriented, still provides familiar features for former Skype users.
Saying Goodbye
Skype’s shutdown is more than a technical update—it’s the end of an internet era. For many, Skype was the first app that made video calls feel effortless and real. As we move on to more advanced platforms, Skype’s legacy will live on as a pioneer that changed how the world connects.