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After more than two decades of bridging communication gaps across the globe, Skype is officially set to shut down. Microsoft, the tech giant behind the platform, has confirmed that the service will be discontinued on May 5, 2025.
Users have the option to migrate their contacts and conversations to Microsoft Teams, which Microsoft is positioning as the preferred alternative. Alternatively, they can download their chat history and explore other video-calling services before the shutdown takes effect.
Skype Is Shutting Down—Here’s How to Transition and the Best Alternatives
Microsoft has announced that Skype will officially shut down on May 5, 2025. Before that date, users can either migrate to Microsoft Teams or export their data to switch to another platform.
How to Move from Skype to Microsoft Teams
Skype users can log into Microsoft Teams using their existing credentials. Once signed in, their contacts and chat history will transfer automatically.
Teams offers one-on-one and group calls, messaging, and file sharing, similar to Skype. However, while Skype was designed for casual use and smaller groups, Teams supports up to 10,000 participants per call, making it more business-oriented. It also includes enhanced security and integrations with tools like OneDrive, Office 365, Trello, and Salesforce.
Teams is available on Android, iOS, Mac, PC, and the web.
How to Export Skype Data
If you prefer not to switch to Teams, you can back up your messages, contacts, and files by exporting your data:
1. Open Skyp and log in.
2. Click the three-dot menu under your account name.
3. Go to Settings > Accounts & Profile > Your Account (this redirects you to Skype’s web portal).
4. Choose Export contacts (.csv), Export Caller ID numbers (.csv), or Export files and chat history.
5. Select Conversations and Files, then click Submit Request.
6. Once processing is complete, download your data.
Top Alternatives to Skype
If Microsoft Teams isn’t the right fit, here are the best alternatives:
Google Meet
– Free with a Google account
– Up to 100 participants
– 60-minute time limit for free users with more than three participants
– Paid plans offer breakout rooms, live Q&A, and AI-powered note-taking
Zoom
– Free plan supports 100 participants but has a 40-minute time limit
– Paid plans ($13–$18/month) remove limits and provide AI-generated meeting summaries
Webex (by Cisco)
– 100 participants on the free plan with a 40-minute time limit
– Paid plans ($12–$22/month) include live polling, Q&A, and AI-powered assistance
Discord
– Originally for gamers but supports video calls, screen sharing, and unlimited meeting time
– Limited to 25 participants, making it best for small teams or personal use
– Affordable paid options at $5/month and $10/month
With Skype’s shutdown approaching, users should explore these alternatives and make the switch before May 2025.
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