REDMOND, USA – Microsoft has officially pulled the plug on Skype, marking the end of a transformative era in digital communication after more than two decades of global service.
The tech giant confirmed the discontinuation in a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, May 5, 2025, calling it “the end of an era” for the platform that once revolutionised voice and video calling over the internet.
Originally launched in August 2003 by Niklas Zennström and Janus Friis, Skype gained rapid popularity for offering free internet-based calls, quickly amassing tens of millions of users.
The platform became synonymous with online communication during the 2000s and early 2010s, reaching over 300 million monthly active users at its peak.
Following earlier announcements on February 28, Microsoft reminded users that Skype services would officially cease from May 5, 2025.
The company is encouraging remaining users to transition to Microsoft Teams, where they can retain access to chats, contacts, and Skype credits.
“I have Skype credit/subscription on my account, can I still use it after May 5th? Yes!” Skype posted.
“Your Skype Credit and calling subscription doesn’t go anywhere; you can use it through Microsoft Teams Free. Simply log in and use your paid services as before.”
Microsoft acquired Skype for $8.5 billion in 2011 and attempted to make it a central part of its communications ecosystem.
However, over time, the platform struggled to keep pace with competitors like Zoom, WhatsApp, and even Microsoft’s own Teams, which surged in usage during the COVID-19 pandemic.
In line with its strategy to consolidate its productivity and communication tools, Microsoft said users will have until January 2026 to export or migrate their data before all remaining Skype information is permanently deleted.
Additionally, Skype credit and subscription purchases have been discontinued for new customers.
Skype’s journey saw multiple owners—first eBay in 2005, then a private investor consortium led by Silver Lake in 2009—before Microsoft took the reins.
Despite falling out of favour in recent years, Skype’s legacy includes being one of the earliest and most impactful disruptors of the telecommunications industry.
Industry analysts note that the move marks a broader shift in the tech landscape, as companies increasingly consolidate platforms and focus on integrated ecosystems.
For many, Skype’s departure is tinged with nostalgia.
“Skype was there for my first long-distance relationship, my first remote job interview, my first video call with family overseas,” wrote one user in response to the announcement.
“End of an era indeed.”
