Skype is shutting down in May: Here’s what you need to know as Microsoft shifts focus to Teams
After more than two decades of connecting millions of people around the world, Microsoft has officially announced it will retire Skype on May 5, 2025, marking the end of an era for the iconic communication platform.
The move is part of Microsoft’s strategic decision to consolidate its consumer communications services under Microsoft Teams, the company’s modern collaboration hub that has rapidly grown in popularity for both work and personal use.
In its official statement, Microsoft emphasized that Teams now offers all the core features users love about Skype and group calls, messaging, and file sharing, while introducing enhanced capabilities such as hosting virtual meetings, managing calendars, and joining online communities, all completely free.
Starting today, users can log in to Microsoft Teams Free using their existing Skype credentials. Chats and contact lists will automatically carry over, ensuring a seamless transition. Skype will remain functional during the transition period, with full interoperability between Skype and Teams Free users until the shutdown date in May.
Here’s How to Make the Move
Transitioning to Teams is designed to be simple:
- Download Microsoft Teams from the official website.
- Log in with your Skype username and password.
- Find your chats and contacts already waiting for you.
Microsoft is also encouraging users to export their Skype data, including contacts and chat history. This option will remain available until January 2026, after which all remaining Skype data will be automatically deleted unless users choose to delete it earlier.
What About Paid Skype Services?
As part of the wind-down, Microsoft has discontinued Skype paid services for new users. Existing users with Skype Credit or subscriptions can continue using them through the Skype web portal and Teams Free until further notice. Subscriptions will automatically renew only until April 3, 2025.
Additionally, Skype minutes will be removed from Microsoft 365 Personal and Family plans starting March 2026.
In a message to users, Microsoft expressed gratitude for their loyalty over the years: “Skype has been a part of countless meaningful moments. We are honoured to have played a role in your lives and are excited to support your future connections through Microsoft Teams.”
To help with the transition, Microsoft has prepared a step-by-step guide and FAQ and is inviting users to provide feedback during this change.
