It’s so weird to see such an iconic part of internet communications being cancelled, but that's just the way it is. Technologies come and go, and in May 2025, we will say goodbye to Skype.

Skype is set to close its doors on May 5, 2025, with Microsoft directing its users to transition to the free version of Microsoft Teams. This change signals the end of an era for a service that has connected millions of people across the globe for over two decades through voice calls, video chats, and instant messaging.

The Rise and Fall of Skype

When Skype launched in 2003, it was a game-changer. It brought free, internet-based voice and video calls to the masses. Remember, it was a time when long-distance communication was often expensive and complicated (we know some of you weren’t even born yet, it’s cool). By 2011, its influence was undeniable, prompting Microsoft to acquire it for $8.5 billion. For a while, Skype thrived. As of 2022, the platform had around 1.95 billion registered users - most of them from the US and Russia.

However, as is the nature of the internet - things began to change. Newer platforms like Zoom, Google Meet, and Slack emerged, offering sleek interfaces, advanced features, and better adaptability to the evolving needs of personal and professional users. Skype, despite periodic updates, began to lose ground. Its technology started to feel dated, and its user base faced growing competition from tools tailored to modern demands, such as large-scale video conferencing and integrated team collaboration.

Microsoft’s decision to sunset Skype and migrate its users to Teams is a strategic pivot. The company aims to streamline its communication offerings under a single platform. For many, though, this transition isn’t straightforward. Skype’s simplicity made it a go-to for casual users. Teams, with its business-oriented design, might feel overwhelming for these users. Additionally, those who invested in paid features like Skype Credit or international calling subscriptions may feel shortchanged. Microsoft has promised that existing balances can be used until subscriptions expire, but after May 5, 2025, these services will vanish from Skype entirely.

And of course, there are people like you - advertisers and publishers - who use Skype as part of their day-to-day work in the industry. Here at AdMaven, we are aware of this significant change, and we are ready to continue communicating with you via other means - via Telegram and Discord.

Discord as an Alternative to Skype

Discord is a great alternative to Skype, and it’s actually better in many ways. It offers a modernized communication platform with enhanced features for both casual users and professionals. Unlike Skype, which was primarily designed for one-on-one calls and business meetings, Discord provides a highly flexible environment with persistent servers, organized channels, and seamless integration of voice, video, and text communication. 

One of Discord’s biggest advantages is its low-latency voice chat, which is optimized for gaming but works just as well for remote work, study groups, and general socializing. Discord operates on efficient servers that ensure smoother communication. The platform also supports screen sharing, file transfers, and integration with third-party applications like Spotify and YouTube.

Another key benefit is its free, high-quality service. Discord provides an ad-free experience with no time limits on calls.

Telegram as an Alternative to Skype

Telegram is not only a great tool for content creators and advertisers, it’s also a powerful communication platform. It has tons of features, and it’s quick and versatile. Unlike traditional calling apps, Telegram seamlessly blends instant messaging with voice and video communication, making it an all-in-one solution for personal and professional use.

The cloud-based architecture allows users to access their messages and media from any device without relying on local storage. The app supports high-quality voice and video calls with end-to-end encryption, ensuring privacy and security. Group calls and video chats are also available.

Telegram’s messaging capabilities go far beyond simple text chats. It supports large group chats with up to 200,000 members, along with channels for broadcasting messages to unlimited audiences. Users can send uncompressed media, schedule messages, and even edit or delete sent texts. The platform also includes advanced bot integration, enabling automation for tasks like customer support, content distribution, and interactive services.

How to Export Your Skype Contacts

To avoid losing your contacts when Skype shuts down, here are your options:

Option 1: Automatic Transfer to Teams
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If you’re moving to Teams, the process is effortless. Download the Teams app (available for desktop and mobile), sign in with your Skype credentials, and your contacts and chat history will automatically sync to the “Chats” or “Contacts” section. This is the smoothest route for Teams adopters.

Option 2: Manual Export from the Skype App

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Option 3: Export via Skype Website

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Remember! Microsoft will retain Skype data only until the end of 2025, after which it will be deleted permanently. Exporting before the May 5, 2025, deadline ensures you won’t lose your connections.

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Other Alternatives to Skype

We suggest that you don’t limit yourself to one alternative. There are other platforms you can use in order to communicate and have conference calls - and some of them are free for basic use. Here are three of them:

Google Meet

Google Meet is a video conferencing solution that integrates with Google Workspace, making it an excellent choice for businesses and teams that rely on Gmail, Calendar, and Drive. The platform offers high-definition video calls with real-time captions, screen sharing, and background noise cancellation. 

There’s no app installation required  for desktop users - you run it in a web browser. Security is another strong point, with encrypted calls and advanced admin controls.

Zoom

During and after COVID-19, Zoom has become one of the most widely used video conferencing platforms. It offers good features for both casual and professional users. It supports HD video and audio calls, virtual backgrounds, breakout rooms for group discussions, and advanced webinar functionalities. 

It’s easy to use, and users can host meetings with up to 1,000 participants on premium plans. It also has built-in recording, chat, and integration with third-party apps.

Microsoft Teams

Microsoft Teams is a collaboration powerhouse, especially for businesses using Microsoft 365. Beyond video and voice calls, it provides a full workspace with chat, file sharing, and project management features. Users can create different channels for discussions, integrate Office apps like Word and Excel, and even automate workflows with Power Automate.

Its integration with enterprise tools makes it a strong Skype alternative for organizations that need more than just video calls. With end-to-end encryption and enterprise-grade security, Teams is very good for corporate environments.