Microsoft will close Skype starting in May 2025.
Skype users can either move to Microsoft Teams or export their data. For those that migrate to Microsoft Teams, they can sign in with their Skype account.
The company said Skype will remain available until May 5, giving users two months to decide what to do with their account.
Skype was released in 2003 and was acquired by Microsoft in 2011 for £6.1 billion. Following the acquisition, Skype was gradually integrated with Microsoft technologies such as Xbox and Windows devices, and Skype users were able to connect with Lync and Outlook.
Jeff Teper, president, collaborative apps and platforms, Microsoft, said, “The way we communicate has evolved significantly over the years. From instant messaging to video calls, technology has continuously transformed how we connect with each other.
“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, our modern communications and collaboration hub.
“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.”