Microsoft will retire Skype in May 2025, directing users to Teams for communication services. Once a pioneer in internet calls, Skype has struggled against competitors like Zoom and WhatsApp. Microsoft aims to simplify its offerings by consolidating services under Teams, marking the end of an era for the iconic platform.
Microsoft has announced it will retire Skype in May 2025, directing users to its Teams platform for continued communication services. Acquired by Microsoft in 2011, Skype revolutionized internet calls after its 2003 launch but has struggled against competitors like Zoom and WhatsApp.
Initially a pioneer in peer-to-peer voice and video calling, Skype gained global traction quickly, reaching 50 million users by 2005. After multiple ownership changes—including a $2.6 billion acquisition by eBay—Microsoft purchased the service, integrating it into its suite of tools.
Despite its legacy, Skype has declined in popularity, especially with the rise of mobile-focused communication platforms. Microsoft Teams, launched in 2017, has since become the company’s preferred collaboration tool, offering features tailored for businesses and organizations.
Jeff Teper, president of Microsoft 365 collaborative apps, stated that consolidating services under Teams will simplify operations and accelerate innovation. He acknowledged that Skype played a crucial role in shaping Microsoft’s communication tools but emphasized that Teams offers a more advanced and unified experience.
With Skype’s shutdown, users will need to transition to Teams, marking the end of an era for one of the internet’s most iconic communication platforms.
