In a major shift in its communications strategy, Microsoft has officially begun the process of phasing out its long-standing messaging app Skype, starting May 5, 2025. The move marks the end of an era for the iconic platform that once dominated the voice over IP (VoIP) and messaging space. Users will be migrated to Microsoft Teams Free, a more modern and feature-rich platform designed to meet modern communications needs.
Category: Skype
Microsoft: Skype Will Shut Down on May 5, 2025
Microsoft has officially confirmed the cessation of further development for Skype, with the service set to shut down on May 5, 2025. As a replacement, the company recommends users transition to the free consumer version of Microsoft Teams, which will offer similar functionality.
Microsoft is about to kill Skype
Looks like the Redmond software giant is killing Skype. Its latest preview for Windows includes lines that hint that it will be closed in May. "Starting in May, Skype will no longer be available. Continue your calls and chats in Teams.", says the hidden string resource.
Skype Insider now allows rewriting your messages with AI as you type
Microsoft has released a major Skype update in app's Insider version. It comes with tight integration with Bing AI that will allow you to rewrite your messages with a selected style and tone. Skype will do it on-the-fly by showing a suggestion overlay. With it, you can express your mind more fluently.
Skype finally supports 911 emergency calls
Whenever you launch Skype or try to make a call using the infamous messenger from Microsoft, the company presents a warning that you cannot use Skype for emergency calls. That is no longer the case as Skype finally received 911 support in the United States. Skype now allows users to contact emergency services directly from the app.
Skype TwinCam allows connecting two cameras during video calls
In September 2021, Microsoft made a surprising announcement about upcoming feature and design upgrades for Skype. Despite continuous efforts to make every Windows user switch to Teams, Microsoft does not plan to ditch Skype any time soon. Moreover, the company keeps supporting the services with fresh features and capabilities. The latest Skype Insider preview brings an option that allows connecting a second camera to your feed during a video call.
Skype now lets you zoom into screen shares
On the official Skype blog, Microsoft announced a new feature that significantly improves screen sharing during calls on Skype. With the latest updates, Skype allows you to zoom into someone’s screen share without squinting your eyes or using screen magnifiers.
Microsoft released Skype 8.77 with various improvements and new features
Although Microsoft wants you to use Teams for work and personal conversations/calls, the company continues supporting Skype. Moreover, the developers recently announced a major feature update coming soon to Skype users. Microsoft plans to deliver parts of that update gradually. Some of the promised features are now available in the latest update 8.77 for Windows, Mac, Linux, Web, Android, iPhone, and iPad.
Microsoft announced a major update for Skype
In 2017, Microsoft announced Teams - a brand-new messaging service for business customers to compete with Slack and similar applications. Since then, the company has been somewhat quiet about Skype and its fate, especially after experimenting with radical redesigns and feature upgrades. But today, the Skype team published a new blog post in which they shared their plans for a faster, more reliable and ultra-modern version of Skype.
Skype Preview 8.69 is out with Electron 11
Skype Preview 8.69 is available for those who signed up to receive beta versions of the popular messenger. This version is rolling out on Windows, macOS, and iOS with some important changes.
