End of an Era: Microsoft Bids Farewell to Skype, Pushes Users to Teams

After more than two decades of connecting people across the globe, Microsoft has announced that it will officially retire Skype in May 2025, shifting focus entirely to its Teams platform.

The news marks the end of a pioneering era in digital communication. Founded in 2003 by Niklas Zennström and Janus Friis, Skype revolutionized online voice and video calls, quickly becoming a household name. However, the rise of competitors like WhatsApp, Zoom, and even Microsoft’s own Teams gradually pushed Skype to the sidelines.

Microsoft, which acquired Skype in 2011, said the decision was driven by a need for simplicity and innovation. “We’ve learned a lot from Skype, and now is the time to focus entirely on Teams,” said Jeff Teper, president of Microsoft 365 collaborative apps and platforms.

Skype users are now encouraged to transition to Microsoft Teams, which offers more advanced features for collaboration and video communication. While Skype may be fading out, its legacy as a game-changer in online communication will live on.