Although it wasn't officially announced, a note included in the latest preview update for Windows confirms the end date for Skype. What's the alternative? Microsoft is asking everyone to switch to Teams.
According an XDA report, the message reads: “Starting in May, Skype will no longer be available. Continue your calls and chats in Teams.” or “Starting in May, Skype will no longer be available. Continue your calls and chats in Teams.” .
After this message, another line states that a certain number of “your friends have already moved to Teams for free.” The last line could refer to Skype contact lists.
At the moment, the official warning or note is not appearing to Skype users, but we will probably see it soon.
Skype was first launched in 2003 and was acquired by Microsoft in 2011 for $8,5 billion.
Over the years, Microsoft has released several updates to Skype, trying to make it more appealing with new features, such as Skype Clips, which allows users to record video messages and send them to each other without having to make a call. In 2024, it integrated Copilot and removed ads across all platforms. However, despite these efforts, Skype has not become a mainstream video calling or messaging app.
Recognizing Skype's lack of popularity relative to other apps, Microsoft ended the Skype Credits feature, which allowed users to make international calls. Shortly after, Microsoft added a subscription service for Skype calling.
Now, it's time to retire Skype. Microsoft has not yet officially confirmed this information, but it's obvious that Skype's days are numbered.
Although the press releases will range from very select to rare, I said I'd pass...because sometimes the editors hide.
