Skype (Retired)
Microsoft retired the consumer Skype service on May 5, 2025 and moved users toward Microsoft Teams Free.
What is Skype (Retired)?
Skype Is No Longer an Active Consumer App
Microsoft retired the consumer Skype service on May 5, 2025. The old Skype apps are no longer a current choice for new messaging or video-call users, so this page is preserved as a historical reference and a guide to replacements.
Why Microsoft Closed Skype
Microsoft consolidated its free consumer communication products around Microsoft Teams Free. Skype helped popularize internet voice and video calls, but maintaining overlapping products no longer matched Microsoft's product strategy.
What Happened to Existing Accounts?
Microsoft allowed Skype users to sign in to Teams Free with their Skype credentials so supported contacts and chats could appear there. Migration and export options have changed over time; anyone returning to an old account should follow Microsoft's current support instructions rather than old third-party tutorials.
What Replaces Skype?
Microsoft recommends Teams Free. Other widely available alternatives include WhatsApp and Signal for personal messaging and calls, Discord for communities, and dedicated meeting tools for scheduled video conferences. The right replacement depends on whether you need phone-number calling, private messaging, communities, or work meetings.
A Note About Skype for Business
Skype for Business is a separate enterprise product and should not be confused with the retired consumer Skype service. An old Skype for Business store listing is not a valid download replacement for consumer Skype.
Key Features
- In-App Video Chat
- Voice Chat
- Messaging
- Screen Sharing
- File Sharing
Pricing details
Skype (Retired) is retired and has no current first-party purchase plan. Do not pay a third party for access to the discontinued service or an unofficial replacement.
Safety Features
- End-to-end encryption option
- Block and report
- Private conversations
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Historically made internet voice and video calling mainstream
- Existing users were offered a path to Microsoft Teams Free
- The brand still has useful historical and comparison value
Cons
- Consumer Skype was retired on May 5, 2025
- Old app-store listings can refer to different Skype for Business products
- Users now need Teams Free or another active alternative
App Details
- Platforms
- iOS (iPhone/iPad) Android Web Browser Windows (PC) macOS (Mac)
- Pricing
- Freemium
- Minimum Service Age
- 13+
- Developer
- Microsoft
- Founded
- 2003
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This page is checked against the listed official sources. Features, prices, and policies can change after the review date.
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