Microsoft has announced that Skype will be retired in May 2025. This means that after this date, Skype will no longer be available, and users will need to switch to Microsoft Teams (free) instead.
This change is part of Microsoft’s plan to focus on one main communication platform instead of supporting multiple apps. Teams is already used by millions of people worldwide for chat, calls, and video meetings, both for work and personal use.
What will happen to Skype?
Skype has been a trusted communication tool for over 20 years since it was released back in 2003. Many people have used it to stay in touch with friends and family, make international calls, and hold meetings. However, technology is always changing, and Microsoft believes that Teams is a better solution for the future.
Even though Skype will continue to work until May 2025, Microsoft encourages users to start using Teams now.
Does this affect Skype for Business?
No, Skype for Business was already retired in July 2021. Microsoft ended support for Skype for Business Online and asked organizations to move to MicrosoftTeams instead. So, this announcement only affects the regular (consumer) version of Skype.
If your organization still uses Skype for Business Server (on-premises), this announcement does not affect you right away. Skype for Business Online was retired in 2021, but Microsoft still supports Skype for Business Server (2019) for companies that run it on their own servers.
However, Microsoft’s long-term goal is to move everyone to Teams, including businesses that still use on-premises solutions.
Skype for Business supported versions going forward:
- Skype for Business Server 2019 is the latest version and will be supported until October 14, 2025.
- A new version is planned for the second half of 2025, Skype for Business Subscription Edition. This version will require a valid subscription to use.
Microsoft recommends that organizations start planning their migration to Teams as soon as possible. The future of Microsoft’s communication tools is clearly cloud-based, and Skype for Business Server will not receive major new features.
While Microsoft is not shutting down Skype for Business Server yet, it is clear that Teams is the future. Businesses that rely on Skype for Business should start preparing for a migration sooner rather than later.
Why is Microsoft doing this?
Microsoft wants to focus on one communication app instead of managing both Skype and Teams. They believe that Teams is more powerful and better suited for the future.
What should Skype users do now?
If you still use Skype, Download Microsoft Teams (free) – You can get it on Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android. When Microsoft enables Skype users in Microsoft Teams (free) they will also move your existing chats and contacts.
It’s always sad when a familiar app like Skype disappears. It has been a part of our lives for a long time. But technology moves forward, and Microsoft wants to provide a more modern and feature-rich experience with Teams.
If you have a subscription for making calls to landlines and mobile phones, or if you use a Skype Number (a local phone number for receiving calls), you may be wondering what will happen after Skype is retired in May 2025.
The announcement states that new customers will no longer have access to paid Skype features, including Skype Credit and subscriptions for international and domestic calls. Current subscription users can use their credits until the end of their next renewal period. After May 5, 2025, remaining paid users can access the Skype Dial Pad via the Skype web portal and Teams. So, if you use Skype for VoIP calls, it is time to look for a replacement.
If you have any ideas for replacements, please let me know in the comments below as I use Skype regularly for making international calls and also have a few local Skype numbers.
