Overview

• Skype, launched in 2003, revolutionized global communication but officially ceased operations on May 5, 2025, after a 22-year run.
• Microsoft acquired Skype in 2011 for $8.5 billion but decided to retire it to focus on its unified communication platform, Microsoft Teams.
• Users can transition to Microsoft Teams Free using their existing Skype credentials, with chats and contacts automatically migrated.
• Skype users have until January 2026 to export or delete their data before it is permanently removed by Microsoft.
• While free and paid Skype accounts are affected, Skype for Business remains operational and unaffected by the shutdown.