Starting in May, Skype will no longer be available; instead, users will be able to access Microsoft Teams’ free tier with their existing login credentials.
The move comes 14 years after Microsoft acquired Skype for USD 8.5 billion—its largest purchase at the time. Skype was then integrated into Microsoft’s products, including Office and Windows Phone.
Despite its early success, Skype has struggled to compete with platforms like Zoom, Google Meet, FaceTime, and WhatsApp. Microsoft has since focused its efforts on Teams, which offers similar features.
Launched in Estonia in 2003, Skype revolutionized global communication by enabling free international calls. eBay acquired it in 2005 for USD 2.6 billion but later sold a majority stake before Microsoft took over in 2011.
“Skype shaped modern communication,” highlighted Jeff Teper, Microsoft 365 President. “We’re excited for the future of Teams and committed to keeping users connected.”
