Skype Signs Off After 21 Years of Connecting People Globally

The iconic video-calling platform Skype has officially shut down after connecting people around the world for 21 years.

Microsoft, Skype’s parent company, had earlier confirmed that the service would remain available until May 5, after which the focus would shift entirely to Microsoft Teams. Users will be able to log into Teams using their existing Skype accounts, the company said.

Founded in 2003, Skype was a pioneer in internet-based communication, relying on Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology to enable phone calls via the internet instead of traditional landlines. In 2005, after being acquired by online retailer eBay, Skype introduced video calling—a feature that became its hallmark.

Microsoft acquired Skype in 2011 for $8.5 billion. By 2016, the platform boasted 300 million users. However, usage steadily declined, falling to just 36 million users by 2023. Over the years, Microsoft redesigned Skype several times and integrated it into products like the now-discontinued Windows Phone. Last year, the company even added Copilot AI features in a final push to modernize the platform.

In a blog post, Microsoft stated that Skype users will be able to access Teams using their existing Skype credentials. “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,” the post read.

Microsoft also announced that it would no longer offer paid Skype features to new customers. This includes Skype Credit and subscriptions that enabled users to make and receive international and domestic calls. However, current subscribers can continue using these features until the end of their next renewal period. Starting today, the Skype Dial Pad will remain available to paying users via the Skype web portal and within Microsoft Teams.