Skype to Shut Down May 5 as Microsoft Pushes Teams Forward

With almost 22 years of linking friends, families, and businesses around the globe, Microsoft will sunset Skype on May 5. Started in 2003 and hitting a high of more than 300 million monthly users during the mid‑2010s, Skype revolutionized free voice and video calls long before Zoom and FaceTime arrived on the scene.

Microsoft purchased the service in 2011 for $8.5 billion to incorporate it into its communications offerings. Yet, as the competition such as WhatsApp and Zoom became increasingly popular—and Microsoft Teams expanded its business presence—Skype’s customer base gradually disappeared. On February 28, Microsoft announced it would be sunsetting Skype “to simplify our services and focus on Teams.”

What Becomes of Skype Accounts and Data?

Microsoft encourages every Skype user to switch to Teams by going to Skype.com and activating the “Start using Teams” option. After logging in with their current Skype credentials, users will discover all their chats, contacts, and call history preserved within Teams.

The organization will continue to maintain Skype for Business temporarily, but schedules its complete retirement in sync with the consumer service disbandment. Free and paid Skype users will no longer be able to access the classic Skype app after May 5, although they can continue to sign in to Teams on desktop, web, and mobile.

Users have until January 2026 to download or transfer their Skype data before it is deleted for good by Microsoft. The data migration allows the users to export chat history, contact lists, and media. Microsoft advises transferring the data early to prevent last‑minute difficulties.

End of an Era for Internet Communication

For two decades, Skype set the standard for over-the-Internet calling. Its peer‑to‑peer technology and global voice‑over‑IP network made international communication affordable and accessible. Skype’s iconic ringtone and “Call phones” feature became cultural touchstones for a generation raised on early broadband.

As Microsoft retires Skype, Teams will carry its legacy of connection, integrating chat, video, and collaboration capabilities into one place. The transition aligns with Microsoft’s move to unify its business and consumer communication products under the Teams umbrella.

How to Get Ready to Switch

• Go to skype.com and click on “Start using Teams.”
• Log in with your Skype username and password.
• Back up and download your chat history through Teams settings.
• Download any significant documents or media files from previous Skype chats.
• Get to know the features of Teams, such as channels, Office apps embedded right within, and more advanced security controls.

Skype users bid adieu to a trailblazing service but Microsoft assures us that Teams will provide an unhindered continuation of their communication requirement—this time supported by enterprise‑grade functionalities and stronger connectivity with Office 365.