Once a revolutionary name in internet-based communication, Skype has officially shut down. On May 5, 2025, Microsoft—the parent company—announced the discontinuation of the service, marking the end of Skype's 22-year journey.

Launched in 2003, Skype became a household name for free voice and video calls across the globe. At its peak in the mid-2010s, the platform had over 300 million monthly active users. Before Zoom or FaceTime gained traction, Skype had already transformed how people connected—both personally and professionally.

Microsoft acquired Skype in 2011 for $8.5 billion with the aim of integrating it into their broader communication strategy. However, as apps like WhatsApp, Zoom, and Microsoft’s own Teams gained popularity, Skype's user base declined.

Now, Microsoft is shifting its focus entirely to Microsoft Teams. From May 5 onward, Skype users can no longer access the app but are encouraged to migrate to Teams, where they can retain their chat history, contacts, and files using their Skype login credentials. The transition can be completed via the “Start using Teams” feature on Skype’s official site.

Microsoft has given users until January 2026 to download any remaining data. After that deadline, all Skype data will be permanently deleted from its servers.

More than just an app, Skype was a symbol of a connected world. Before remote work and digital classrooms became the norm, Skype was the bridge for millions—between continents, families, colleagues, and communities.

As users bid farewell, many reflect fondly on a platform that defined an era of communication.