Exciting changes are on the horizon for communication enthusiasts! Microsoft is officially retiring Skype, the iconic voice and video app it acquired in 2011. While Skype will continue to operate until May 5, 2025, users are encouraged to make the leap to Microsoft Teams—an upgraded platform designed for modern communication.
Why this shift? Microsoft recognizes the growing preference for VoIP-based communication over traditional phone number-based calling. To facilitate a smooth transition, users have two options: migrate existing Skype data, including photos and chat histories, or seamlessly transfer conversation histories to Teams.
Transitioning to Teams
For those ready to embrace Teams, Microsoft will soon enable Skype users to sign in using their Skype credentials on any supported device. This feature is currently available for members of both the Teams and Skype Insider programs. Simply look for the pop-up message in the Skype app that says, “Goodbye Skype, hello Teams!”
- Click on the pop-up message in Skype.
- Download Teams on your device.
- Log in using your Skype credentials.
- Enjoy Teams with all your Skype chats and contacts ready to go!
Microsoft Teams will continue to support calling domestic and international numbers for a limited time, with a Skype Dial Pad available for those with existing Skype credits. However, this feature will eventually be phased out.
Jeff Teper, President of Collaborative Apps and Platforms at Microsoft, shared, “To streamline our free consumer communications offerings, we will retire Skype in May 2025 to focus on Microsoft Teams (free). Teams offers enhanced features like meeting hosting, calendar management, and community building, alongside core functionalities like calls and messaging.”
With Teams, you can stay connected in exciting new ways, and Microsoft is committed to supporting you through this transition.
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