For years, Skype has been a go-to platform for video calls, voice chats, and instant messaging. However, recent announcements confirm that Skype is shutting down, leaving millions of users searching for a reliable alternative. Whether you used Skype for business meetings, staying in touch with family, or gaming with friends, its closure means it’s time to explore other options. Fortunately, there are plenty of modern communication apps that offer similar—and often improved—features.
In this article, we’ll explore the best Skype alternatives to help you transition smoothly when Skype is shutting down.
When Will Skype Shut Down?
According to a blog post from Microsoft, Skype will officially go offline on May 5, 2025. After this date, users will no longer have access to their call and messaging history or their contact lists.
In its statement, Microsoft clarified:
“Going forward, we will no longer offer paid Skype features to new customers, including Skype Credit and subscriptions for making and receiving international and domestic calls.”
For existing users, Skype subscriptions and credits will remain active until the end of their next renewal period. Those with remaining Skype Credit can continue using it until it is depleted.
Additionally, Microsoft has confirmed that the Skype Dial Pad—which allows users to call landlines and mobile numbers—will still be accessible for paid users through the Skype web portal and within Microsoft Teams.
Why is Skype Shutting Down?
Skype, once a pioneer in internet communication, is scheduled to be retired by Microsoft on May 5, 2025. This decision stems from several factors, including a declining user base, increased competition, and Microsoft’s strategic shift towards enhancing Microsoft Teams.
Microsoft has stated that the retirement of Skype is part of its efforts to streamline consumer communication offerings and focus on Microsoft Teams, its modern communications and collaboration hub. Jeff Teper, Microsoft’s president of collaborative apps and platforms, explained that this move allows the company to better adapt to customer needs.
Possible Factors Contributing to the Shutdown
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Declining User Base: Over the years, Skype’s popularity has waned, with users migrating to other platforms that offer more integrated features.
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Increased Competition: The rise of platforms like Zoom and Google Meet, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, provided users with alternative video conferencing solutions, leading to a further decline in Skype’s user engagement.
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Microsoft’s Focus on Teams: Introduced in 2017, Microsoft Teams has rapidly evolved into a comprehensive collaboration platform, integrating chat, video meetings, and file storage. Its seamless integration with Microsoft 365 services has made it a preferred choice for both businesses and individual users. This strategic focus has rendered Skype redundant within Microsoft’s suite of communication tools.
Current Skype users are encouraged to transition to Microsoft Teams (free). During the transition period leading up to May 5, 2025, users can sign into Teams using their Skype credentials, ensuring that chats and contacts are preserved. Additionally, during this period, Teams Free users can call and chat with Skype users, and vice versa, ensuring continuous connectivity. After the retirement date, Skype will no longer be available, and users will need to rely on Teams for their communication needs.
How to Export Data When Skype is Shutting down?
If you don’t plan on transitioning to Microsoft Teams, it’s still a good idea to export your Skype data. This allows you to back up important information, such as messages, files, and contacts, so you can access them even after Skype is no longer available. Follow these steps to securely save your Skype data before May 5, 2025.
1. Log in to Skype
- Open Skype on your computer or mobile device.
- Enter your credentials and sign in.
2. Access Account Settings
- Click on the three horizontal dots (More options) located under your account name in the top-left corner.
- Select Settings from the dropdown menu.
3. Navigate to Your Account
- In the Settings menu, go to Account & Profile.
- Click on Your Account, which will redirect you to Skype’s web portal.
4. Choose the Data You Want to Export
- On the web portal, scroll down to the Export Data section.
- Select from the following options:
a. Export Contacts (.csv) – Downloads your saved contacts in a CSV format.
b. Export Caller ID Numbers (.csv) – Exports any saved phone numbers used with Skype Caller ID.
c. Export Files and Chat History – Allows you to download conversations and shared files.
5. Request and Download Your Data
- Click on Submit Request to initiate the export process.
- You will receive a notification when your data is ready to download.
- Return to the Export Data section and click Download to save your files.
Note: The export process may take some time, depending on the amount of data stored in your account. Be sure to store your exported files in a secure location, such as a cloud storage service (Google Drive, OneDrive) or an external hard drive. If you have an active Skype subscription or Skype Credit, review Microsoft’s guidelines on refunds or transferring balances before the shutdown.
What Are the Best Alternatives if Skype is Shutting Down?
Microsoft Teams (Suitable for Business Calls)
Microsoft Teams is a comprehensive communication platform that enables users to send messages, share files, and conduct voice or video calls. It supports group calls of up to 60 minutes and includes 5GB of free cloud storage for file sharing and collaboration.
With Skype being discontinued, Microsoft encourages users to switch to Teams. By logging in with your Skype credentials, you can seamlessly transfer your contacts and chat history. To get started, download Microsoft Teams from the official website, install the app, and sign in with your existing Skype account.
- Pros: Integrated chat and file sharing, works well with Microsoft Office
- Cons: Might feel overly complex if you just need basic video calls
- Available on: Windows, iOS, Android
Zoom (Great for Both Business and Personal Use)
Zoom gained widespread popularity in 2020 and remains one of the top choices for video calls, audio calls, and chat messaging. Similar to Skype, it allows users to connect with contacts easily, making it a reliable alternative for both professional and personal communication.
The free version of Zoom enables users to make calls, but only with other Zoom accounts. For those who need to call regular phone numbers, Zoom Phone is available with paid plans starting at £8 per month (Pay As You Go) or £12 per month (unlimited regional calling).
- Pros: Easy to use, suitable for both personal and business use
- Cons: Free version has time limits for group calls
- Available on: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android
WhatsApp (Ideal for Casual Chats)
WhatsApp is a widely used messaging app that allows users to send texts, make voice and video calls, create group chats, and share files—all for free. It is available on mobile devices and also offers a desktop version (WhatsApp Web) for convenient messaging from a computer.
With millions of users worldwide, WhatsApp has become a go-to app for staying connected. However, to call someone using WhatsApp, they must also have the app installed.
For added security, it’s recommended to enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) to protect messages, voice notes, and attachments. To do this, go to Settings > Account > Two-step verification > Turn on or Set up PIN.
- Pros: Works across multiple devices, free to use
- Cons: Calls require the recipient to have WhatsApp installed
- Available on: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android
Facebook Messenger (Great for Casual Chats)
Facebook Messenger is a free messaging app that allows users to send texts, make voice and video calls, and share files across multiple devices. With its large user base, it’s an easy way to stay connected with friends, family, and colleagues.
To use Messenger, you’ll need a Facebook account if you don’t already have one. The app is accessible through the Facebook website or as a standalone app on smartphones and PCs. In addition to messaging and calls, Messenger also supports voice notes, making it convenient for quick, hands-free communication.
- Pros: Free video and audio calls across all devices, widely used
- Cons: Both the caller and receiver must have a Facebook account and Messenger installed
- Available on: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android
FaceTime (Best for Apple Users)
FaceTime comes pre-installed on all Apple devices, making it an easy and convenient option for video and audio calls. It works over Wi-Fi or mobile data and supports group calls, allowing multiple participants to connect seamlessly.
To make a FaceTime call, you’ll need the recipient’s phone number or registered email address. If they don’t answer, you can leave a video or audio message. The app also includes screen sharing and SharePlay, a feature that lets users watch movies and TV shows together in real time.
While non-Apple users can join FaceTime calls via a web browser, they cannot start a call or access advanced features like screen sharing.
- Pros: Pre-installed on Apple devices, supports group calls
- Cons: Non-Apple users can join via browser but cannot initiate calls or use all features
- Available on: Mac, iOS
Google Meet (Best for Easy, Browser-Based Meetings)
Google Meet is a simple and accessible video conferencing platform that operates directly in a web browser, removing the need for downloads or installations. It seamlessly connects with Google services, including Gmail, Google Calendar, and Google Drive, making it an excellent option for both professional and personal communication.
If you have a Google account, you can easily set up meetings, join audio or video calls, and share your screen for presentations. When creating an event in Google Calendar, you can automatically generate a Google Meet link for quick access.
While Google Meet is a great option for one-on-one and group calls, it lacks some of the advanced features found in Zoom, such as breakout rooms and extensive meeting controls.
- Pros: Works directly in a web browser, free to use, no time limits on one-on-one calls
- Cons: Lacks some advanced features compared to Zoom
- Available on: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android
Signal (Best for Privacy-Conscious Users)
Signal is a secure messaging and calling platform designed for users who prioritize privacy. It features end-to-end encryption, ensuring that all messages, voice calls, and video calls remain completely private.
Users can send texts, voice messages, photos, videos, GIFs, and files for free. Signal also supports group chats and both audio and video calls, making it a solid alternative to Skype. Unlike many other communication platforms, Signal is ad-free and does not track user data.
While it offers top-tier security, its user base is much smaller than WhatsApp or Zoom, which may limit who you can connect with.
- Pros: Fully encrypted calls and messages, available on desktop and mobile
- Cons: Smaller user base compared to WhatsApp and Zoom
- Available on: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android
Viber (Ideal for International Calls)
Viber provides a convenient way to stay connected globally. It allows users to send messages, share files, and initiate voice or video calls at no cost when communicating with other Viber users.
For those needing to call landlines or mobile numbers worldwide, Viber offers a pay-as-you-go service called Viber Out, where users can purchase credits for international calling. The platform also includes group chat options for both audio and video conversations.
- Pros: Affordable international calling via prepaid credits
- Cons: Calls to landlines and mobiles require a paid plan
- Available on: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android
Conclusion
With Skype shutting down, users must transition to alternative communication platforms to avoid losing access to their chats, contacts, and call history. Whether for business meetings, personal conversations, or international calls, several reliable options are available.
Microsoft Teams is the primary replacement, especially for professionals, while Zoom and Google Meet provide accessible video conferencing solutions. WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger are great for casual messaging, FaceTime is ideal for Apple users, and Signal ensures privacy with encrypted communication. For international calls, Viber remains a strong alternative.
Since Skype is shutting down, making the switch now will prevent disruptions and ensure a seamless transition. Exploring these alternatives early allows users to continue communicating without interruptions. As Skype is shutting down, choosing the right platform will help maintain smooth and efficient communication moving forward.