Skype has been around since 2003, helping users connect with loved ones virtually and businesses move forward thanks to its messaging and videoconferencing features. However, with the rapid changes in how we use technology over the past few years, it was inevitable that the app would be sunsetted at some point to fit consumer needs. In 2017, Microsoft announced its push to expand Teams and encouraged users to migrate to the new app. By the end of February this year, Microsoft announced that Skype would officially be retired by May 5.
What comes after
As of today, the platform no longer supports new purchases of subscriptions, Skype Numbers, or Skype Credit. By January 2026, all user data will be deleted, so users who wish to download their app data may export it from the platform. Thankfully, migrating to Teams is easy; users would only need to use their Skype credentials for their chats and contacts to be transferred to the new app. This provides a more collaborative and flexible setup for users. However, 1:1 chat with self history, private conversations, and chat history between Skype and Skype for Business will not be carried over during migration.
Microsoft Teams has been developed as the intended successor to Skype, adding more features as it integrates with other Microsoft 365 apps. The platform supports one-on-one and group calls, messaging, and file sharing. It also offers virtual meetings and calendar management features.
Beyond Teams, services like Zoom are available to the market as alternatives. Launched in 2011, Zoom rose to fame during the pandemic. In 2021, Zoom’s revenue amounted to $2.65 billion, which is 300% more than the $623 million of the previous year. During and even after the peak of the pandemic, it has been referred to as one of the biggest “lockdown winners.”
Future of digital communication
As we continue to advance technologically, so does the way we communicate. Platforms will come and go, but we’re left with more knowledge to better these tools. As we bid goodbye to one such as Skype, we are shaping the future of the next apps and platforms. After all, these tools have one goal only: to keep us connected with others, anytime and anywhere.
YouTube: The Next Chapter: From Skype to Teams
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Photo credit: The feature image is symbolic and has been done by Mati Flo.
Source: Statista
