Microsoft said it would “retire” its online messaging and voice calling service Skype in May.
The US tech giant said the move would allow it to focus on its cutting-edge online communications platform Teams, which provides virtual meeting tools as well as calling and chat features.
Skype was launched in 2003, then bought by eBay in 2005, and then acquired by Microsoft in 2011 for $8.5 billion, which used it to replace its Windows Live Messenger service.
As of February 2023, Skype was used by 36 million people daily, and at its peak, it became one of the most used tools on the Internet, becoming the main platform for online video calls in the 2000s and 2010s.
However, it has been supplanted in recent years by Teams, Microsoft's newest online collaboration service, which has gained huge popularity during the pandemic and the rise of remote work.
In a blog post announcing the shutdown, Microsoft said: “Skype has played a significant role in shaping modern communications and supporting so many important experiences, and we are honored to be a part of that.
“We also understand that change can be difficult, and we want you to know that we are here to support you every step of the way.
“We’re excited about the new capabilities Teams brings and are committed to helping you stay connected in new and meaningful ways.”
Microsoft said it will give Skype users the option to upgrade to Teams for free in the coming days, as well as the ability to export their Skype data.
The company confirmed that Skype will cease to exist on May 5.
Sourse: breakingnews.ie
