As of May 5, Microsoft is officially shutting down Skype, and the company is urging its users to transition to Microsoft Teams. The decision to discontinue Skype is aimed at streamlining the company’s free consumer communications services, making it easier to adapt to customer needs, according to the official announcement.

Microsoft is taking a proactive approach in encouraging users to switch to Teams by providing step-by-step instructions on how to migrate. Users can log in with their Skype credentials, and their chats and contacts will be transferred automatically. Until Skype is officially discontinued, users of both Teams and Skype will be able to communicate with each other seamlessly. Additionally, Microsoft has released a YouTube video that guides users through the process of transitioning their data. Alternatively, users who prefer not to move to Teams can export their data and history before the May 5 deadline.

The decision to phase out Skype does not come as a surprise, given the company’s recent moves, such as removing credits and phone numbers from Skype in favor of subscription-based models. XDA initially reported on the possibility of Skype’s discontinuation, citing a Skype for Windows code preview that stated, “Starting in May, Skype will no longer be available. Continue your calls and chats in Teams.” As of now, new users will not be able to access paid Skype features, while existing subscribers can continue to use their credits and plans until the end of their renewal period.

Skype was first launched over two decades ago, in 2003. Microsoft acquired the platform for $8.5 billion in 2011, a time when finding a stable Wi-Fi connection for video calls was a significant challenge. Although Skype may not have much to differentiate it from other platforms like Zoom, FaceTime, and Teams in today’s market, it’s difficult to bid farewell to a service that brought people together and paved the way for modern communication. Skype’s impact will undoubtedly be missed.

If you make a purchase through a link in this article, we may earn a commission.