Beginning in May 2025, Microsoft is going to kill Skype in favour of Microsoft Teams. Users can log in to Teams for free on any compatible device using their Skype credentials, including those from the Teams and Skype Insider programs. Skype will continue to be accessible until May 5, 2025, so users have time to explore and choose the most suitable option.
According to Microsoft, all existing users of Skype will have to transfer their data to Teams when Skype shuts down on May 5, 2025. The company via blog post said, “In order to streamline our free consumer communications offerings so we can more easily adapt to customer needs, we will be retiring Skype in May 2025 to focus on Microsoft Teams (free), our modern communications and collaboration hub.”
Teams provides users with the same key functionality as Skype, including one-on-one and group calls, messaging, and file sharing. It also offers free additional capabilities such as meeting hosting, calendar management, and community building. Teams enable hundreds of millions of users to stay connected and engaged at work, school, and home. According to the firm, the number of minutes spent in meetings by users has increased fourfold over the last two years, demonstrating the significance of Teams in everyday communication and collaboration.
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“As we take this next step with Teams, we’re excited about the opportunities ahead. We look forward to continuing to support people’s everyday connections, starting by making it easy to log into Teams with their Skype account.”
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Skype users can either migrate to Microsoft Teams for free or export their Skype data. Teams will allow users to login in with their Skype credentials and chat with both Skype and Teams members. Chats and contacts will appear automatically in the app, ensuring seamless connectivity across platforms. If users do not want to switch to Teams, they can export their chats, contacts, and call history. Skype will be available until May 5, 2025, allowing consumers to explore and find the best alternative for them. During this transition phase, Skype users will be able to stay connected with everyone, regardless of platform.