Microsoft announced that Skype will be discontinued on May 5, 2025, bringing an end to the internet-based voice and video calling service that became popular. The company is directing Skype users to the Teams application.

Microsoft revealed that as of May 5, 2025, they will be terminating the Skype service. After years of enabling users to make voice and video calls over the internet, Skype will be replaced by the more innovative and integration-focused Teams platform. Microsoft officials stated that the main reason behind this move is to focus more on Teams in order to achieve rapid and effective innovations. Teams gained popularity during the pandemic for meeting remote working and communication needs. It is predicted that with the transition of Skype users, Teams will continue to grow even further. Users will be able to transfer their data and contacts from Skype to Teams until May 5, 2025. Microsoft also announced that they will provide comprehensive guidance and support to ensure a smooth transition for users.

ONE OF THE LARGEST ACQUISITIONS CLOSED

Skype was launched in 2003 and quickly became a platform that popularized voice and video calling over the internet. In 2011, Microsoft paid $8.5 billion to acquire Skype, making it one of their largest acquisitions at the time. With changing technology and user expectations, Microsoft decided to focus on Teams, a more integrated and versatile communication tool.

FEATURES OF MICROSOFT TEAMS

Microsoft Teams is a versatile platform offering powerful features in the collaboration and communication space. Users can communicate through one-on-one or group chats, organize meetings by making voice and video calls, share screens during meetings for presentations, and facilitate real-time collaboration among team members through file sharing. They can manage projects systematically by creating channels and teams, track tasks, and utilize planning tools.

Teams integrates with Microsoft 365 applications to enhance business processes and also supports third-party applications. Channel tabs provide quick access to frequently used files and applications, while data is protected with high-security standards. Teams caters to all communication and collaboration needs of the modern business world, providing users with a comprehensive experience.

Teams not only offers voice and video calls, but also document sharing, project management, and collaboration tools to meet the needs of the modern business world. Microsoft’s strategic decision is seen as a reflection of the company’s efforts to provide more innovative and user-centric services.