Microsoft has officially retired Skype as of 5 May 2025, closing a chapter in the history of digital communication. The change affects both free and paid users, although "Skype for Business" users will not be impacted.

Users are now encouraged to switch to the free version of Microsoft Teams. By signing in with their Skype credentials, they can automatically transfer their contacts and chat history.

Those who prefer not to continue with Teams have the option to export their Skype data.

Launched in 2003, Skype revolutionised online communication and, by 2008, was the largest provider of international voice calls, holding an 8% share of global call volume.

At its peak in 2011, Skype boasted 140 million monthly users worldwide.

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