# **Microsoft to Phase Out Skype by 2025: Users to Transition to Teams**
After over twenty years of operation, Microsoft has made the official announcement that Skype will be retired on **May 5, 2025**. The company is advising users to migrate to **Microsoft Teams**, which is being presented as its main communication platform.
## **A Farewell to Skype**
First introduced in **2003**, Skype quickly established itself as a leading platform for online communication, enabling users to make voice and video calls via the internet. Microsoft purchased Skype in **2011** for **$8.5 billion**, incorporating it into its suite of services and even bundling it with **Windows 10**. Nonetheless, in recent years, Microsoft has redirected its attention to Teams, particularly as remote work and collaboration tools have become more essential.
## **What Will the Transition Entail?**
Microsoft has shared a migration strategy to facilitate users’ move from Skype to Teams:
– **Current Skype Users Can Access Teams**: Beginning now, some Skype users (particularly those within the **Teams and Skype Insider programs**) can access **Microsoft Teams** using their Skype login credentials. This feature will be rolled out to a larger user base in the upcoming days.
– **Chat History and Contacts Will Be Transferred**: Microsoft asserts that once users log into Teams with their Skype credentials, their **contacts and chat history** will be accessible within Teams.
– **Option to Export Data**: Users who do not wish to transition to Teams may **export their Skype data**, which includes contacts, call logs, and chat messages.
## **What About Paid Skype Features?**
For those who have **Skype Credits** or **premium services**, Microsoft has clarified the following:
– **Current Skype Premium Subscriptions Will Stay Active** until the termination date. However, new subscriptions will not be accepted.
– **Skype Credits Remain Usable**: Even after Skype is officially retired, Microsoft will maintain the **Skype Dial Pad** available through a **web interface** and in **Teams**, allowing users to utilize their remaining credits.
## **Why Is Microsoft Closing Skype?**
The decision to retire Skype has been expected for a while. Several key reasons contributing to this choice include:
– **Diminishing Popularity**: While Skype was once the preferred platform for video chats, it has faced challenges in competing with contemporary options like **Zoom, WhatsApp, and Discord**.
– **Microsoft’s Commitment to Teams**: Microsoft has been actively endorsing **Teams**, which has emerged as a vital tool for corporate communication, particularly following the increase in remote work.
– **Skype for Business Already Discontinued**: Microsoft had previously **discontinued Skype for Business** in 2021, signaling its long-term strategy to completely phase out Skype.
## **The Closure of Classic Messaging Platforms**
The shutdown of Skype is part of a larger movement where older messaging applications are being replaced by newer, more comprehensive solutions. In **June 2024**, **ICQ**, another legendary messaging service from the early 2000s, was also **shut down**.
## **What Should Skype Users Do Next?**
If you are a Skype user, you have several choices:
1. **Transition to Microsoft Teams**: This is the **recommended** choice, as Microsoft is facilitating a smooth migration.
2. **Export Your Data**: If you prefer not to switch to Teams, be sure to **export your contacts and chat history** prior to May 5, 2025.
3. **Utilize Remaining Skype Credits**: If you possess Skype Credits, spend them before the shutdown or continue to use them via the Skype Dial Pad in Teams.
## **In Summary**
The sunset of Skype marks a significant change in online communication. While many might feel a sense of nostalgia for its exit, Microsoft is committed to a **seamless transition** to Teams, which provides more contemporary features and improved integration with its ecosystem. If you are a Skype user, now is the moment to begin preparing for the shift.
### **Are you still using Skype? Will you switch to Teams or consider other options? Share your thoughts with us!** 🚀
