Microsoft is set to retire Skype in May 2025, redirecting users to its Teams platform. Skype, established in 2003, significantly changed online communication with its audio and video calling features. Despite initial success, Skype struggled against newer competitors, prompting Microsoft to focus on Teams for future developments.
On February 28, 2025, Microsoft announced the retirement of Skype, a pioneering platform for online voice and video calls that the company acquired in 2011. Starting in May 2025, users will no longer have access to Skype, as Microsoft directs them to utilize its Teams platform instead. Skype, founded in 2003 by Niklas Zennström and Janus Friis, transformed internet communication by enabling free calls between computers, as well as affordable landline and mobile calls.
In summary, Microsoft’s decision to retire Skype in favor of Teams reflects the platform’s evolution and the changing dynamics of online communication. With the advent of competitors such as WhatsApp and Zoom, Skype’s market share dwindled, prompting Microsoft to consolidate its offerings under a single, innovative platform. As the company focuses on Teams, it signals a commitment to improved user experiences and technology advancements.
Original Source: www.jamaicaobserver.com
