05/05/2025
May 5, 2025, marks the official end of an era as Microsoft concludes its Skype service after nearly 22 years. This decision, communicated earlier this year, signifies Microsoft's strategic consolidation around Microsoft Teams as its core communication and collaboration platform, bringing to a close the chapter of a truly iconic early internet communication tool.
Launched in August 2003 by Estonian developers, Skype fundamentally altered online interaction by pioneering free voice and video calls over the internet. At its peak in 2011, it commanded a user base of over 150 million monthly active users and was subsequently acquired by Microsoft for $8.5 billion. However, the platform witnessed a significant reduction in its active users to 23 million by 2025, as competitors including Zoom, WhatsApp, and Microsoft Teams gained traction.
To ensure a smooth transition for its user base, Microsoft is providing a pathway for Skype users to migrate their existing chats and contacts to Microsoft Teams using their current login credentials. For users who prefer not to make the switch, Microsoft will offer data export options for Skype until January 2026, after which all remaining data will be permanently removed.
While Skype for Business will continue to operate on a temporary basis, Microsoft is recommending a move to Teams to benefit from its more integrated and contemporary communication features.
fans
