Redmond, WA – It’s the end of an era for a digital pioneer. Microsoft has officially pulled the plug on Skype, the video calling service used by millions over two decades. The Skype shut down took effect on May 5th, prompting waves of nostalgia online for its once-ubiquitous ringtone and easy video chats.
Microsoft, which bought Skype in 2011, stated the move helps them focus their communication tools, specifically pointing users towards Microsoft Teams. Jeff Teper, a Microsoft president, acknowledged Skype’s role in “shaping modern communications.”
What the Skype Shut Down Means for Your Account
So, what happens now if you were a Skype user? You cannot log into Skype anymore. The good news? Your Skype username and password now work for Microsoft Teams Free.
- Automatic Transfer: Microsoft says your contacts and most chat history will move over automatically when you log into Teams Free.
- In-App Prompt: Look out for a notification within the old Skype app guiding you through migrating your data.
Important: What Data Won’t Move?
Be aware that some specific data will not transfer from Skype to Teams Free:
- Chats you had with business or school Teams accounts.
- Your chat history from Skype for Business.
- Chats you saved with yourself (1:1 self-chat).
- Any data from Skype’s Private Conversations feature.
- Interactions or history with Copilot or other bots.
For connecting with work or school accounts, Microsoft advises starting fresh conversations directly within Teams Free.
Action Needed: Save Your Skype History
While the transfer aims to be smooth, you need to act to keep your data.
- Log In: The simplest step is to sign into Microsoft Teams Free using your old Skype details. This triggers the data migration.
- Export Your Data: Don’t want to use Teams? You have the option to download and export your Skype data separately.
- Critical Deadline: You must either log into Teams Free or export your data by January 2026. If you do nothing by this date, your contacts and chat history linked to the Skype shut down will be permanently deleted. Don’t delay – secure your data following the Skype shut down.
By Kayode Ojo
Culled:TheHill.com
