At the end of last year, after transitioning Skype’s original pay-per-use model to a subscription-based plan, Microsoft recently announced that it would no longer offer paid Skype features to new users. This includes purchasing Skype credits and using subscription-based services for making and receiving domestic and international calls. Existing subscribers will still be able to access paid features until their subscription cycle ends, while users with remaining Skype credits can continue to use them. However, after May 5 of this year, Skype’s dialing function will only be accessible via Skype’s official website or Microsoft Teams.
Following this transition, Microsoft plans to migrate Skype’s internet calling functionality to Microsoft Teams, streamlining its free online communication services.
With Microsoft Teams now amassing over 250 million users worldwide and integrating various Office-related features, merging Skype’s capabilities into Microsoft Teams is expected to drive further user growth.
Microsoft has also released video content detailing the process of transferring Skype data. Users can import their Skype chat history and contacts simply by logging into their personal Skype account within Microsoft Teams. Alternatively, those who prefer not to transfer their Skype data to Microsoft Teams can opt to export all Skype contacts and chat records before May 5.
Microsoft acquired Skype in 2005 for $8.5 billion and has since continued to develop and integrate it with its ecosystem of services. However, as the market has become increasingly saturated with free and stable internet communication platforms—and with the subsequent launch of Microsoft Teams—Skype has gradually faded into obscurity.
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