Microsoft is officially shutting down Skype, the once-dominant communication platform, and urging users to transition to Microsoft Teams, the company announced Friday.
The application will be discontinued in May as part of Microsoft’s efforts “to streamline our free consumer communications offerings so we can more easily adapt to customer needs,” said Jeff Teper, president of collaborative apps and platforms.
“The way we communicate has evolved significantly over the years,” Teper stated. “From instant messaging to video calls, technology has continuously transformed how we connect with each other.”
Skype users will be able to transfer their accounts to Teams for free while retaining many of the same features. Those who opt not to migrate will have the option to export their Skype data. Microsoft also confirmed that during the transition, Skype and Teams users will still be able to message and call one another.
“Skype has been an integral part of shaping modern communications and supporting countless meaningful moments,” Teper said. “We are honored to have been part of the journey.”
Acquired by Microsoft for $8.5 billion in 2011, Skype was a leader in internet communications in the early 2000s. However, the platform has struggled to compete with newer services like Zoom, which surged in popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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