Microsoft has announced that it will be closing Skype, the video-calling service that has garnered hundreds of millions of users worldwide, in May. Skype was once a dominant platform, facilitating free voice calls via computers for users to connect with friends and family globally.
Initially launched in 2003, Skype helped popularize the idea of computer-to-computer calling, despite not being the first service to do so. In 2011, Microsoft purchased Skype for $8.5 billion, marking its largest acquisition at that time. Since then, Skype has been integrated with various Microsoft products, including Xbox and Windows devices.
Following the announcement of its upcoming closure, many past and present users took to social media to reflect on their experiences with Skype. Users expressed nostalgia for the service, with one individual highlighting the fond memories shared with friends, while another user, named Louise, recounted using Skype to maintain a long-distance relationship.
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As technology evolved, other platforms like WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger gained popularity, leading to a decline in Skype’s user base. A significant redesign of Skype in 2017 was met with criticism from users who felt that the changes addressed issues that were not present.
The trend toward collaboration tools also shifted focus away from Skype. In 2021, Microsoft’s announcement of the Windows 11 operating system included the integration of Microsoft Teams by default, while Skype was notably absent. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Microsoft Teams gained traction due to its suitability for remote work and personal meetings.
In a blog post, Jeff Teper, president of collaborative apps and platforms at Microsoft, emphasized the company’s goal to streamline its free services by focusing on Teams. The post also outlined that Skype users will have the option to transition to Microsoft Teams or export their Skype data, including chats and contacts.
For those who use paid features on Skype, Microsoft indicated that these services will remain available until the next renewal period.
