Microsoft has officially announced it will sunset Skype in May, transitioning users to a free version of Microsoft Teams. This move comes as VoIP platforms like WhatsApp, Zoom, FaceTime and Messenger dominate modern communications, rendering Skype's traditional call features increasingly obsolete.
The End of an Era for Internet Calling
Current Skype users will retain access to their message history and contacts when switching to Microsoft Teams without creating new accounts. However, Microsoft will discontinue domestic and international call support - Skype's signature feature since its 2003 launch.
Users have until May 5 to either migrate to Teams or download their Skype data including photos and chat logs. While existing credits will be honored, Microsoft will no longer offer paid calling features to new customers.
"Telephony functionality was essential when VoIP wasn't widely available and mobile data plans were costly," explained Microsoft VP Amit Fulay. "But usage trends show this capability matters less in today's communication landscape."
From $8.5 Billion Acquisition to Retirement
Microsoft acquired Skype for $8.5 billion in 2011, aiming to strengthen its real-time communication offerings. While initially integrated across Windows devices and Xbox consoles, Skype's user growth plateaued as competitors innovated.
The company now focuses on Microsoft Teams for consumer communications, offering enhanced collaboration tools that better suit modern digital interactions. This transition marks the end of Skype's nearly two-decade run as a pioneer in internet calling.
