Microsoft is officially shutting down Skype on May 5, marking the end of its 20-year run. The company is consolidating its messaging and video services under Teams for a streamlined experience
Microsoft 365 executive Jeff Teper confirmed the transition, stating that focusing on Teams will drive faster innovation. Users can sign in to Teams with their Skype credentials, and all chats and contacts will migrate automatically.
While Skype-to-Teams calling will work until May, Skype Credit and international calling subscriptions are being phased out. Paid users can still access the Skype Dial Pad via the web and Teams.
For those wanting to keep their data, manual exports of chat history, contacts, and calls are available.
During the transition period, individuals who are still using Skype will be able to communicate with users who have already moved to Microsoft Teams.
To export your messages and media from Skype, follow these steps:
1) Sign in to the Skype “Export” page using your Microsoft account info.
2) Download by selecting “Conversations,” “Files” or both.
3) Hit “Submit request” and “Continue.”
4) Return to the export page to check the status of your export. You can review this at the top of the page under “Available Exports.”
5) Once available, select the “Download” button to download your files, including messages, video messages, files, pictures and other media.
To export and download a list of your Skype contacts, do the following:
1) Sign in to your Skype account.
2) Navigate to the “My Account” page.
3) Scroll down to “Settings and preferences.”
4) Select “Export contacts (.csv)” to download your contacts into a file.
As Skype fades into tech history, it leaves behind a legacy of connecting friends, families, and colleagues across the world. Though its time has come to an end, the conversations it sparked will carry on in new ways.”