Skype is shutting down after two decades

Microsoft is shutting down Skype in May 2025, redirecting users to Microsoft Teams’ free tier.

Acquired for $8.5 billion in 2011, Skype was once a dominant communication platform but has declined amid competition from Zoom, Google Meet, WhatsApp, and FaceTime.

Launched in 2003 in Estonia, Skype revolutionized free international calls and saw early success, leading to eBay’s $2.6 billion purchase in 2005. However, eBay later sold its 65% stake before Microsoft acquired it.

Despite a brief resurgence during the pandemic, Microsoft has since prioritized Teams, which offers similar features. With Skype’s shutdown, Microsoft shifts focus to more integrated communication tools within its ecosystem.