Microsoft will shut down Skype in May

The inevitable is about to occur. Although not officially disclosed, a note in the current Windows preview version confirms Skype's expiration date for May 5. What is the alternative? Microsoft encourages everyone to move to Teams.

According to XDA, the secret notice states, "Starting in May, Skype will no longer be available. Continue calling and chatting in Teams." Another line after this notification states that a specific number "of your friends have already moved to Teams free." The final line could be based on the users' Skype contact lists.

The official warning or note has yet to emerge for Skype users, but it should do so soon. Skype began in 2003 and was acquired by Microsoft in 2011 for $8.5 billion. However, Skype did not prove to be an instant success for Microsoft, as its integration with Windows 10, Windows Phone, and even Xbox failed to produce the anticipated impact.

Microsoft has released numerous improvements for Skype over the years, but the product did not become a viable choice during the epidemic, when Zoom took advantage of the opportunity. Microsoft did use Skype as the base for Teams, but the two platforms' experiences remained separate.

Microsoft attempted to revitalise Skype with new features such as Skype Clips, which allows users to record video messages and share them to one another without having to make a phone conversation. In 2024, it will also integrate Copilot and eradicate advertisements from all platforms. Despite these attempts, Skype did not become the most popular video calling or messaging program.

Recognising Skype's downfall, Microsoft discontinued the Skype Credits service, which enabled users to make international calls. Instead, Microsoft launched a subscription service that provides free Skype calls.

And now it's time for Skype to say goodbye.