Skype will officially retire in May 2025, marking the end of an era for millions of users. Whether you’re a free or paid user, it’s crucial to understand what this change means and how you can transition smoothly. However, this does not impact Skype for Business.
In May 2025, Skype is Retiring:
This change will impact both free and paid Skype users, but not Skype for Business.
Skype users will have the option to move to Microsoft Teams Free, which offers many of the same core features and more. By logging in to Teams Free with your Skype account, your chats and contacts will appear in the app so you can pick up where you left off. This capability will gradually roll out over the coming days, beginning with those who are both Skype and Teams Insiders on the latest app versions.
If you don’t want to use Microsoft Teams Free, you can export your Skype data.
Existing calling and Skype Number subscriptions will continue to automatically renew until April 3, 2025. After May 2025, the Skype Dial Pad will be available to remaining paid users from the Skype web portal and within Teams Free. To transfer your Skype Number, contact your new carrier or learn more here.
Additionally, Microsoft will no longer offer paid Skype features to new customers, including Skype Credit and subscriptions that allow you to make and receive international and domestic calls.
Transition to Microsoft Teams Free
To ensure a seamless shift, Microsoft Teams Free will be the recommended alternative for Skype users. When you log into Teams Free using your Skype credentials, your chats and contacts will automatically sync, allowing you to continue your conversations without disruption. This transition will roll out gradually, starting with users who are part of the Skype and Teams Insider programs.
If you prefer not to move to Teams Free, Microsoft allows you to export your Skype data before the transition period ends.
Changes for Skype Paid Users
- Subscriptions & Renewals: Existing calling and Skype Number subscriptions will auto-renew until April 3, 2025.
- Dial Pad Access: After May 2025, Skype’s Dial Pad will still be available for paid users via the Skype web portal and within Teams Free.
- New Customers: Microsoft will stop offering paid Skype features like Skype Credit and subscriptions for international/domestic calls to new customers.
- Skype Number Transfers: You can transfer your Skype Number by contacting your new carrier. Learn more here.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Do I need to create a new account for Teams Free? No, you can log into Teams Free with your existing Skype credentials, and your chats and contacts will be available.
2. Will my chat history and contacts transfer? Yes, your Skype contacts and chat history will migrate to Teams Free when you log in.
3. What data won’t migrate?
- Chats between Skype users and Teams work/school accounts
- Skype to Skype for Business chat history
- Private conversations and bot interactions
- Self-chat history
4. How long does the transition process take? Less than a minute once you log into Teams Free.
5. Can I use Skype until May 2025? Yes, Skype will remain functional until May 5, 2025.
6. Can I use both Skype and Teams Free during the transition? Yes, both apps can be used simultaneously until Skype officially retires.
7. Will logging into Teams Free deactivate my Skype account? No, you can still use Skype until May 2025 while accessing Teams Free.
8. Can I still communicate with Skype users via Teams Free? Yes, until May 5, 2025, Teams Free will support calling and chatting with Skype users.
9. When will my Skype data be deleted? Your Skype data will be available for export or deletion until January 2026. If you log into Teams Free before then, your chat and call history will transfer. If no action is taken, your data will be permanently deleted in January 2026.
What’s Next for Users?
If you’re currently using Skype, it’s advisable to transition to Microsoft Teams Free or export your data before May 2025. Microsoft is making efforts to ensure that your communication remains uninterrupted, with enhanced features available on Teams Free.
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