Microsoft is finally shutting down Skype, the voice and video communication app acquired in 2011. The service will remain online until May 5, and users are encouraged to switch to Teams for consumer applications.
The company cites the widespread adoption of VoIP-based communication as the reason for moving on from phone number-based calling on Skype. In this phase-out stage, consumers are given 2 options: either they can migrate their existing Skype data, including photos and conversation history, or can seamlessly migrate their conversation history to Teams.
Users switching to Teams should be aware that Microsoft will only support calling domestic or international numbers or mobile phones for a limited time. Teams will include a Skype Dial Pad for users with existing Skype credits and subscriptions. However, this feature will eventually be phased out.
How to migrate Skype data to Teams?
Microsoft will soon roll out the ability for Skype users to sign into Teams (free) on any supported device using their Skype credentials—starting today with those who are part of both the Teams and Skype Insider programs.
Users just need to click the pop-up message that appears on the Skype app saying, “Goodbye Skype, hello Teams.” By logging in to Teams with a Skype account, chats and contacts will automatically appear in the app, and users can call and chat with Skype users, and Skype users can do the same with Teams users until May 5, 2025.
- Just click the pop-up message that appears on the Skype app saying, “Goodbye Skype, hello Teams.” (or)
- Download Teams on your device.
- Log in with your Skype credentials.
- Start using Teams with all your Skype chats and contacts ready to go.
Regarding the matter, Jeff Teper, President of Collaborative Apps and Platforms at Microsoft, said,
In order to streamline our free consumer communications offerings so we can more easily adapt to customer needs, we will be retiring Skype in May 2025 to focus on Microsoft Teams (free), our modern communications and collaboration hub.
With Teams, users have access to many of the same core features they use in Skype, such as one-on-one calls and group calls, messaging, and file sharing. Additionally, Teams offers enhanced features like hosting meetings, managing calendars, and building and joining communities for free.
Skype has been an integral part of shaping modern communications and supporting countless meaningful moments, and we are honored to have been part of the journey.
We also understand that change can be challenging and want you to know that we’re here to support you every step of the way. We’re excited about the new opportunities that Teams brings and are committed to helping you stay connected in new and meaningful ways.