Skype's Functionality Wanes
Skype's time has come to an end. The once-popular voice-over-internet app, now replaced by Microsoft Teams, is stepping into the past. First introduced in 2003, Skype quickly became the go-to for online voice and video calls, even becoming its own verb. With various long-distance relationships, podcast recording sessions, and remote D&D games, Skype became a staple in many lives.
Yet, after the pandemic pushed apps like Zoom to the forefront, Skype now finds itself on the sidelines. Microsoft is attempting to make the transition as painless as possible, offering a straightforward way for Skype users to transfer their chats, contacts, photos, and call history to Teams. Past users can also save their data locally with a download tool provided by Microsoft.
and dozens of other trendsetting apps before it. Come May 5, it’ll officially be replaced by Microsoft Teams.
Interestingly, while Skype and Teams will be interoperable for some time, phone calls will no longer be an option on Skype after May 5, 2025. Microsoft will honor pre-existing credits and subscription plans but won't offer new ones. Users will still receive dialing capabilities on Skype and Teams after the shutdown.
that it’s also made a tool that will allow users to view their Skype chat history after the shutdown.
While it's inevitable that many Skype users will migrate to Teams, they should consider alternative options as well. Rather than being limited by the business-focused Teams, options like Zoom, Viber, WhatsApp, and JusTalk offer varying features to suit diverse needs. Whether you're looking for high-quality video calls, fun features, or seamless integration with existing services, there's an alternative that works for you.
that saw Microsoft phasing out new Skype Credit sales as well as the Skype Number feature, which allowed users to use Skype to answer calls and send texts from a standard phone number. In retrospect, it seems the writing has been on the wall for a while.
Sources:[1] PCMag[2] Comparitech[3] JusTalk[4] Viber[5] WhatsApp Website
is definitely a viable choice for personal use despite its more business-oriented name, you might find yourself preferring one of its competitors. From our friends at PCMag, here are some of
These alternatives offer a range of features that can replace Skype's functionality for personal and professional use.
to consider migrating to once the Skype shutdown arrives.
- With Skype shutting down in 2025, tech enthusiasts are anticipating the trend of migration from Skype to Microsoft Teams, following in the footsteps of apps like Google Hangouts.
- As Skype prepares to close down, many users are considering running alternative apps to Teams, such as Zoom, Viber, WhatsApp, and JusTalk, which offer varied features to cater to diverse needs.
- In light of Skype shutting down, users might find it beneficial to run their voice and video calls on Microsoft Teams, despite its technical shift towards more business-oriented functions, or choose from the best free video calling apps available in the market.
