Skype discontinued after 22 years of service

After nearly 22 years of operation, the iconic internet-based communication platform Skype has been officially closed.

In an announcement, Microsoft, the parent company of Skype, confirmed that the platform will no longer be available for use starting May 5, 2025.

Microsoft has decided to shift its focus to Microsoft Teams, which it aims to promote as the primary communication tool going forward.

Skype, launched in 2003, revolutionised voice and video calls, becoming an essential tool for both personal and professional communication. It gained widespread popularity among individuals, professionals, and expatriates alike. However, after Microsoft acquired Skype in 2011, the platform’s relevance began to decline, overshadowed by competitors such as WhatsApp, Zoom, and Microsoft Teams.

In February 2024, Microsoft confirmed the shutdown of Skype, prompting users to transition to Teams. While Skype will be fully disabled in 2025, users will still be able to access their old chats, contacts, and data until January 2026, after which the information will no longer be accessible.