Skype is Shutting Down: Here’s How to Switch to Teams or Find a Better Alternative!

Microsoft has announced that it will discontinue its Skype messaging service on May 5, 2025, after 22 years of operation. This decision is part of the company’s strategy to focus on Microsoft Teams, a platform that offers enhanced features for communication and collaboration.

Steps to switch from Skype to Microsoft Teams

Microsoft is planning to simplify the transition process by allowing Skype users to authenticate through Teams using their current account information, while their messages and contacts will migrate automatically. Before Skype ceases operations, users will have access to the transition feature.

In the meantime, users can manually migrate their contacts:

1. Open Microsoft Teams.
2. Select the three-dot menu > Settings.
3. Select ‘People.’
4. Under ‘Synchronize contacts,’ select ‘Manage.’
5. Choose to synchronize Skype contacts if using the same Microsoft account for both services.

The ‘My Account’ tab on the account dashboard allows users to access the ‘Export contacts’ function, which allows them to obtain contact information in a CSV file. Through this function, users can back up their Skype data. Before the export is completed, users can access go.skype.com/export to select their preferred data, which will enable them to obtain it.

Alternative Messaging Apps

For users seeking alternatives to Microsoft Teams, several other messaging apps are available:

• Zoom: Allows users to hold meetings while also integrating with calendars and providing chatting and calling options to assist users organise their communication sessions.
• Google Meet: Enables video calls, meetings, and conferences across PC, tablet, and phone.
• Slack: Facilitates users with video meetings, group chat functions, and scheduled calls, and it is especially useful for remote teams.
• WhatsApp: Supports private chats, group communication, video calls, and a variety of other features.
• Cisco Webex: Offers web and video conferencing and targets professional users with subscription-based additional services.
• Discord: Enables chats, calls, and group communication, making it ideal for both public and private communities.

As the May 5 deadline approaches, users are encouraged to plan their transition to ensure uninterrupted communication.