Microsoft has announced that it will be discontinuing its Skype messaging service on May 5th, 2025. The decision comes after a decline in user interest, which led the company to recommend switching to Teams for free. However, users have alternative options, including using Zoom, Google Meet, or other messaging apps like WhatsApp and Discord.
Microsoft plans to offer seamless integration between Skype and Teams, allowing users to log in with their existing credentials and transfer chats and contacts. Users can also use their Skype credits on Teams’ Dial Pad feature.
To migrate from Skype to Teams, users can follow these steps:
1. Open Microsoft Teams.
2. Select the three-dot menu > Settings.
3. Choose People and synchronize contacts using the same Microsoft account.
4. Alternatively, backup Skype data by logging in to Skype, going to My Account, and exporting contacts and chats.
Starting May 5th, Microsoft will offer an option to delete just the Skype account without affecting the associated Microsoft account.
For those looking for alternative messaging apps, options like Zoom, Google Meet, WhatsApp, Slack, Cisco Webex, and Discord are available.
Source: https://www.pcworld.com/article/2627780/skype-is-dying-soon-how-to-migrate-to-teams-or-pick-another-app.html