New York – Microsoft has announced that Skype, once the trailblazer in global video calling and messaging, will be officially discontinued on May 5, 2025. After nearly two decades of service, the iconic platform will make way for Microsoft Teams Free — the company’s modern solution for seamless communication and collaboration.
The transition marks the end of an era for millions who relied on Skype for everything from international calls to family chats, business meetings, and casual messaging. According to Microsoft, the move is part of a broader strategy to streamline its services under one advanced platform that offers all the capabilities of Skype — and more.
“Teams Free replicates core Skype functionalities like video and voice calls, messaging, and file sharing, but also introduces new tools for improved collaboration”, Microsoft stated.
What Users Can Expect During the Transition
The good news is that the switch to Microsoft Teams Free is designed to be smooth and user-friendly. Here’s what existing Skype users need to know:
- Login and Continuity: Users can log in to Teams Free with their existing Skype credentials — no need to create a new account.
- Automatic Data Transfer: Contacts and chat history will automatically migrate to Teams Free upon login.
- No Service Interruption (For Now): Both Skype and Teams Free will remain functional until the May 5, 2025 cutoff, allowing users to explore Teams without losing Skype access.
Will Skype Users Still Be Reachable?
Yes — but only for a limited time. Microsoft confirms that Teams Free will support messaging and calls to Skype users during the transition period. This cross-platform functionality is rolling out gradually and will be available to users who are active on both platforms.
What Won’t Transfer to Teams Free?
While Microsoft is migrating most data, a few types of content and chats won’t make the move, including:
- Conversations between Skype and Skype for Business
- Private conversations and 1:1 chats with self
- Bots and Copilot content
- Chats with Teams work or school accounts
These will require users to initiate new chats within Teams Free.
What About Skype Subscriptions?
Skype’s paid services — including calling plans and Skype Numbers — will remain active until April 3, 2025. After Skype’s discontinuation, users will still be able to use the Skype Dial Pad via Microsoft Teams Free or through the web portal.
Data Retention and Deletion
- Users who don’t migrate to Teams Free will see their Skype data permanently deleted in January 2026.
- However, if you log in to Teams Free before that deadline, your chat and call history will be retained.
- Microsoft is also offering an option to export Skype data manually before the final shutdown.
With a full year before Skype’s sunset, Microsoft is encouraging users to begin transitioning now to avoid any disruption. The retirement of Skype is a symbolic milestone — closing one chapter of internet communication history, and opening another with a more integrated, feature-rich future on Microsoft Teams Free.
