Microsoft has confirmed that it will shut down Skype in May, directing users to its Teams platform and closing a chapter on the once-popular internet calling service.

Jeff Teper, president of Microsoft 365 collaborative apps and platforms, released a statement confirming Skype’s imminent end. 

“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 (free), our modern communications and collaboration hub,” Teper said in the statement. 

According to the statement, Skype will remain available until May 5,  providing users with time to explore Teams and determine the best option for their needs.

“Over the coming days, we will roll out the ability for Skype users to sign into Teams (free) on any supported device using their Skype credentials—starting today with those who are part of both the Teams and Skype Insider programs,” Teper said. By logging in to Teams with a Skype account, chats and contacts will automatically appear in the app so you can quickly pick up where you left off.”

If you choose not to migrate to Teams, Microsoft creates an option to export your data, including chats, contacts, and call history.

According to the statement, Teams users will be able to call and chat with Skype users, and vice versa. This would enable communication across both platforms, allowing users to stay connected regardless of which service they are using.

Tepper announced that Microsoft will no longer offer paid Skype features to new customers, including Skype Credit and subscriptions for international and domestic calls.  

Current Skype subscribers can continue using their Skype Credit and subscriptions until the end of their next renewal period. Skype Credit users will also be able to use any remaining balance.  

After May 5, the Skype Dial Pad will still be accessible to remaining paid users via the Skype web portal and within Teams.

Acquired by Microsoft in 2011 for $8.5 billion—its largest purchase at the time—Skype originally launched in 2003 and became a leader in internet calling, offering free global connectivity. However, it struggled to compete with emerging rivals like FaceTime, WhatsApp, Discord, and Zoom.

Following the acquisition, Microsoft integrated Skype with its Office suite and the now-discontinued Windows Phone platform. Despite these efforts, the service fell behind as users gravitated toward mobile-focused messaging and video call apps such as FaceTime and WhatsApp.

“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, starting by making it easy to log into Teams with their Skype account,” Teper said.

The Red Archives will keep readers informed on new developments regarding Skype.