After 23 years of connecting people worldwide, Skype is officially shutting down. Microsoft has announced that the service will end on May 5, 2025.
What Should Skype Users Do Next?
If you’re a Skype user, you have two main options:
- Move to Microsoft Teams, which allows you to transfer all your contacts and chat history seamlessly.
- Download your Skype data if you prefer switching to a different video-calling app.
To help with this transition, Microsoft has provided a guide on migrating to Teams and instructions on exporting Skype data.
How to Switch from Skype to Microsoft Teams
If you decide to move to Microsoft Teams, here’s what you need to do before May 5, 2025:
- Sign in to Teams using your Skype account.
- Your contacts and chat history will transfer automatically.
Why switch to Teams?
Available on Android, iOS, Mac, PC, and the web.
More participants – Skype allowed up to 20 people per call, while Teams supports up to 10,000 participants.
Better security and integration with services like OneDrive, Office 365, Trello, and more.
How to Export Your Skype Data
If you don’t want to switch to Teams, it’s a good idea to back up your Skype data. Follow these steps:
- Open Skype and log in.
- Click the three dots next to your account name.
- Go to Settings > Account & Profile > Your Account.
- Choose what you want to export (contacts, caller ID numbers, chat history, or files).
- Click Submit Request, then download your data when it’s ready.
For detailed instructions, check out Skype’s official export guide.
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Best Alternatives to Skype
With Skype shutting down, choosing the right video-calling platform is important. Google Meet is a great option for general use since it’s free with a Google account and allows up to 100 participants. It includes features like screen sharing, meeting recording, and breakout rooms, but meetings with more than three participants are limited to 60 minutes on the free plan.
Zoom
Zoom is another strong contender, especially for professional meetings. It supports up to 100 participants in its free plan and offers useful features such as screen sharing, chat, and meeting recording. However, the free version limits meetings to 40 minutes, with paid plans starting at $13 per month.
Webex
Webex, developed by Cisco, is best suited for secure enterprise calls. The free plan includes up to 100 participants with a 40-minute limit, while paid plans offer AI assistance, live polling, and Q&A tools.
Discord
Discord, originally designed for gamers, is also a viable alternative for small groups and casual use. It offers unlimited call duration and screen sharing, but it caps video calls at 25 participants.
Slack
Slack is ideal for workplace collaboration. The Huddles feature allows users to quickly transition from messaging to voice or video calls. However, the free plan only supports two-person video calls, whereas paid plans allow up to 50 participants.
For those who prioritize privacy, Signal is a great option. It provides end-to-end encryption for secure communication and supports up to 50 participants in a call. Plus, it’s completely free to use.
Each of these platforms has unique strengths. Depending on whether you need a solution for business, casual use, or privacy, there’s an option that will meet your needs.
Final Thoughts
Since Skype is shutting down, it’s essential to back up your data and find an alternative before May 5, 2025. Whether you switch to Teams, Google Meet, Zoom, or another service, make sure you choose a platform that fits your needs.
