Skype is officially being retired by Microsoft on May 5, 2025, in favor of Microsoft Teams (free). While Skype had a glorious run in shaping global communication, it’s time to say goodbye and move on. The platform gave us the ability to connect across continents effortlessly — from casual video chats to professional meetings.
Even though its popularity dwindled in recent years, Skype was still a go-to for many due to its easy accessibility, whether on flagship phones or budget devices. If you’re among those looking for a powerful Skype alternative, here are 7 solid choices you can switch to.
Honorable Mention: FaceTime
If you’re an Apple user, FaceTime is a familiar and quality option for video and voice calls. The video quality is crisp, calls are easy to start, and the interface is user-friendly. However, the downside is its limited availability across platforms — using it with Android or Windows devices requires extra steps.
But if you’re already using an iPhone or iPad, FaceTime is definitely worth trying out as a Skype alternative for smooth video calling.
7. Line – A Popular Choice in East Asia
- In-app purchases: ✅ $0.99 – $22.99
- Subscription: ❌ No
- ChromeOS support: ✅ Yes
- Publisher: LINE (LY Corporation)
- Launch Date: June 23, 2011
Line is a widely used app in countries like Thailand and Japan. It blends social networking with text and voice communication. Like Skype, Line offers free voice and video calls, and now supports sign-up via Google or Apple ID without requiring a phone number.
What makes Line stand out is its customization — emojis, stickers, themes, and more. While it may not be as advanced as some Western apps, it’s fun and reliable for casual communication.
6. Telegram – Lightweight and Versatile
- In-app purchases: ✅ $1.99 – $35.99
- Subscription: ✅ Yes (optional)
- ChromeOS support: ✅ Yes
- Publisher: Telegram FZ-LLC
- Launch Date: September 6, 2013
Despite facing some controversy, Telegram remains a robust cross-platform messaging app. It’s similar to Skype in many ways — voice/video calling, group chats, cloud storage, and strong privacy options (if enabled).
It does require a phone number to register, but virtual numbers work too. For those looking for a privacy-friendly, fast, and flexible communication tool, Telegram is one of the better Skype alternatives available.
Also Read: Skype is Retiring in May 2025: What You Need to Know
5. Google Voice – A Virtual Phone Number Solution
- In-app purchases: ❌ None
- Subscription: ✅ Yes (optional)
- ChromeOS support: ✅ Yes
- Publisher: Google LLC
- Launch Date: September 11, 2018
If you used Skype mainly for voice calls, Google Voice is a reliable option. It’s free in the US and Canada, provides voicemail, and integrates well with Google services like Gmail and Google Calendar.
For international users, rates apply — but as a VoIP tool, it’s a solid Skype substitute.
4. Discord – A Community-Based Skype Alternative
- In-app purchases: ✅ $2.99 – $99.99
- Subscription: ✅ Yes (optional)
- ChromeOS support: ✅ Yes
- Publisher: Discord Inc
- Launch Date: May 13, 2015
Though initially created for gamers, Discord has evolved into a powerful all-around communications platform. You can:
- Create or join servers
- Host group calls
- Share screens
- Video chat with communities or individuals
It’s more feature-rich than Skype, but can feel a bit overwhelming for new users. However, once you get used to the interface, it’s one of the best free communication tools available.
3. Zoom – Best for Online Meetings
- In-app purchases: ❌ None
- Subscription: ✅ Yes (optional)
- ChromeOS support: ✅ Yes
- Publisher: Zoom.com
- Launch Date: January 24, 2013
For those who used Skype professionally, Zoom is an excellent upgrade. It supports both small team meetings and large-scale webinars. While the free version limits calls to 40 minutes, it’s intuitive, widely used, and offers great video/audio quality.
Zoom even incorporates AI tools to enhance productivity, making it more than just a video conferencing platform.
2. Signal – For Maximum Privacy
- In-app purchases: ❌ None
- Subscription: ❌ No
- ChromeOS support: ✅ Yes
- Publisher: Signal Foundation
- Launch Date: May 25, 2010
Signal is widely praised for its privacy-first design. It uses end-to-end encryption for messages and calls, doesn’t store user data like profile pics or message logs, and operates ad-free.
Signal is funded through donations and offers a simple, distraction-free interface. If privacy is your main concern, Signal is your ideal Skype alternative.
1. WhatsApp Messenger – The All-in-One Communication App
- In-app purchases: ❌ None
- Subscription: ❌ No (except WhatsApp Business Premium)
- ChromeOS support: ✅ Yes
- Publisher: WhatsApp LLC
- Launch Date: October 18, 2010
Thanks to its wide adoption and seamless setup, WhatsApp is a powerful replacement for Skype. It offers:
- Video calling (up to 32 people)
- Voice calls
- Encrypted chats
- Cross-platform syncing (web and mobile)
It does require a phone number, but almost everyone already has it installed, making coordination effortless. WhatsApp strikes a great balance between security and usability.
Saying Goodbye to Skype
As Skype sunsets this May, Microsoft wants users to migrate to Teams — but you don’t have to. Whether you’re prioritizing privacy, functionality, or community features, there’s a wide range of Skype alternatives that might suit you better.
Whether you’re chatting one-on-one, hosting meetings, or joining global communities — there’s a replacement out there that matches (or even beats) Skype’s offerings.