For nearly two decades, Skype connected people across the world with free internet calls, revolutionizing communication long before video conferencing became mainstream.

But now, Microsoft is officially pulling the plug on the once-dominant service, confirming that Skype will no longer be available starting in May, according to an announcement on X today (Friday).

The Rise and Fall of Skype

Launched in 2003 in Estonia, Skype quickly became a game-changer in global communication, allowing users to make free voice and video calls at a time when international calls were expensive. According to the announcement, the company has urged users to transition to Microsoft Teams.

The platform’s success caught the attention of major corporations, with eBay acquiring it in 2005 for $2.6 billion. However, the partnership failed, and eBay reportedly sold most of its stake in 2009 before Microsoft purchased Skype for $8.5 billion in 2011, CNN Business reported.

Despite its early dominance, Skype has struggled to maintain relevance amid growing competition. While the COVID-19 pandemic boosted video conferencing platforms like Zoom, Google Meet, and Cisco WebEx, Skype failed to regain its lost momentum.

Over the years, rivals such as Apple’s FaceTime and Meta’s WhatsApp have also reduced their user base. Meanwhile, Microsoft has been investing heavily in Teams, which offers similar services but with more integration into Microsoft’s ecosystem.

What Happens Next?

Microsoft has assured users that Skype logins will still work to access the free tier of Teams. However, this move marks the definitive end of an era in digital communication. While Skype once set the standard for online calls, it struggled to evolve in a fast-changing tech landscape.

Microsoft’s focus on Teams reflects a broader industry trend, consolidating services into platforms that offer more than just voice and video calls. As Skype fades into history, it leaves behind a legacy of innovation. It was one of the first services to make global communication free and accessible, paving the way for the platforms that dominate today.

Source: Finance Magnates