Microsoft officially retired Skype on May 5, 2025, concluding over two decades of service that transformed global communication. This decision marks a strategic shift towards consolidating Microsoft's communication platforms, with Microsoft Teams emerging as the successor.
Why Skype Is Ending
Skype, launched in 2003 and acquired by Microsoft in 2011 for $8.5 billion, was a pioneer in VoIP and video calling. However, its popularity waned with the rise of mobile apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime, and Zoom. The COVID-19 pandemic further accelerated the adoption of platforms like Zoom and Slack, which offered more modern features and better integration for remote work. Microsoft's focus shifted to Teams, introduced in 2017, which provided a more comprehensive collaboration tool, leading to Skype's decline and eventual discontinuation.
How to Migrate from Skype to Microsoft Teams
Microsoft recommends transitioning to Microsoft Teams Free, which offers similar core functionalities, including messaging, file sharing, and video calls. While traditional phone-call features are not included, Teams provides enhanced capabilities like hosting meetings and managing calendars.
If you don’t already have Microsoft Teams installed, you can download it for free here.
Steps to Migrate:
- Sign In to Teams: Use your existing Skype credentials to log into Microsoft Teams Free.
- Automatic Data Transfer: Your chats and contacts will appear in Teams, allowing you to continue conversations seamlessly.
- Explore Enhanced Features: Take advantage of Teams' additional functionalities, such as calendar integration and community building.
For users who prefer not to migrate to Teams, Microsoft provides an option to download and export Skype data, including chat history and contacts, through a special link available until January 2026.
How to Export Your Skype Data
If you choose not to migrate to Teams, you can export your Skype data—such as chats, contacts, and media files—using Microsoft's dedicated export tool.
Steps to Export:
- Access the Export Tool: Visit the Skype Export Page
- Sign In: Log in with your Skype or Microsoft account credentials.
- Select Data to Export: Choose to download your Conversations, Files, or both.
- Submit Request: Click on "Submit request" and then "Continue" when prompted.
- Download Data: Once your data is ready, a download link will appear on the export page.
The exported data will be in a .tar file format, which can be opened using built-in tools on macOS or third-party applications on Windows. For detailed instructions on extracting and viewing your data, refer to Microsoft's guide on How to export or delete your Skype data.
Considerations for Skype for Business Users
Skype for Business Online was retired on July 31, 2021, with Microsoft encouraging organizations to upgrade to Teams. The transition involves configuring hybrid connectivity and setting appropriate coexistence modes to ensure a smooth migration. Microsoft provides resources and support for organizations to plan and execute their upgrade to Teams.
Final Thoughts
The retirement of Skype signifies Microsoft's commitment to streamlining its communication services and focusing on platforms that cater to modern collaboration needs. Microsoft Teams stands as the unified solution, offering a robust set of tools for both personal and professional communication.
For assistance with the transition, Microsoft offers support through its Teams Community and official support channels. If you need further assistance then don’t hesitate to get in touch with ourselves at Direct Computers.
We also sell various Microsoft Office packages on our website.
If you're looking for some help moving across whether you're a business or individual please contact us here
