Microsoft to permanently discontinue Skype on May 5
Microsoft has officially announced the discontinuation of its internet calling service, Skype, scheduled for May 5, 2025. This decision stems from the company's strategic focus on the development of the Microsoft Teams platform, which has gained greater popularity among users.
Microsoft is offering Skype users the option to migrate their contacts and chats to Teams, aiming to facilitate a seamless transition. Users will have 60 days following the announcement to export their data or switch to the new platform. Those who opt not to use Teams will be granted the opportunity to retain their data until the end of the year, after which it will be deleted.
The company assures that the transition to Teams will enhance communication quality and accelerate innovation in this field.
"Skype has been integral in shaping modern communications and creating countless meaningful moments, and we are proud to have been part of this journey", stated Microsoft.
Skype, launched in 2003 by Niklas Zennström, Janus Friis, and four Estonian developers, was once a leader in video calling and messaging, but its popularity has significantly declined over time. In 2016, the number of active users reached 300 million; however, by 2023, this figure had decreased to 36 million.
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