The pioneer of video calling, Skype, has officially retired on May 5. For twenty-two years, the video calling app has connected millions of people all over the world. Developed and launched in Estonia in 2003, the platform was acquired by Microsoft for $8.5 billion in 2011.  As the video and audio calling platform retires, people are reminiscing about their nostalgic experiences on Skype and looking for the best alternatives that provide seamless video call services.  

One Skype user wrote on an Instagram post

“Thank you, Skype! For connecting us in an extraordinary way video call was super clear, I felt like we were in the same room. It’s amazing how easy it is to stay in touch with everyone. Sharing those photos was a lot of fun, glad we could do it live. Distance definitely doesn’t feel like a barrier anymore, thanks to this. Catching up with everyone was the highlight of my week!” 

Skype Users Can Transition to Teams 

As the video calling app announced to shutdown, it also provided an alternative for users to transfer their numbers and data to Teams. However, Skype users had multiple queries that the video calling platform answered. 

How can users switch from Skype to Teams? 

  • Skype users need to download the Teams app
  • After signing into Teams, users can enter their Skype details 
  • Skype history will automatically be transferred to Teams 
  • A notification will be sent on the Skype app 

How can Skype users move their chats from Skype to Microsoft Teams for free? 

Once a Skype user’s account is transferred to Teams, the contacts and chats are automatically transferred. However, if nothing is displayed on the Teams chat, users can try logging out and signing back in. 

Can Skype users still call and chat with Skype contacts? 

Yes, Microsoft Teams Free allows communication with Skype users. If users decide to use Teams Free, all their chats and contacts will be moved with them for ease of use.

What if Skype users don’t want to move to Microsoft Teams?

Skype users can still export their data until December 2025 and use Skype until May 5, 2025. After this date, the Skype client will no longer be available to anyone. However, Skype for Business will be available temporarily.