Big news—Skype is shutting down on May 5, 2025. After 22 years, Microsoft is pulling the plug. If you still use Skype, you’re probably wondering why this is happening and what you should do next.
Don’t worry, we’ll break it all down in simple terms in this blog post.
Microsoft’s Official Announcement
On February 28, Microsoft confirmed via X that Skype will officially be retired on May 5, 2025. After this date, users will no longer be able to access the app, and all support and updates will stop.
This means:
- No more software updates – Security patches and bug fixes will no longer be released.
- End of customer support – Microsoft will no longer provide help for Skype-related issues.
- Accounts and data will be removed – Users will need to save important messages before the shutdown.
Existing calling subscriptions and Skype Number renewals will continue until April 3, 2025. After May 2025, the Skype Dial Pad will still be available for remaining paid users through the Skype web portal, but new subscriptions will no longer be offered.
Why Is Microsoft Shutting Down Skype?
Skype was once a leading communication tool. It used to be a household name, but its popularity has declined over the years, especially among younger folks.
Other than that, Microsoft had a few other reasons for choosing to shut down Skype.
Market Changes and Competition
Skype is no longer the popular go-to option for video calls. Over time, other communication apps have introduced faster, more reliable connections with better features for both personal and business use.
Many platforms now offer seamless integration with work tools, improved security, and a smoother experience across devices.
As a result, Skype users have gradually moved to other services that provide a more modern and efficient way to stay connected.
Lacking Features
Skype was originally designed for video calls and messaging, but it no longer meets the needs of modern communication apps.
Today, users expect more than just calls and chat—they need a platform that supports collaboration, file sharing, and integration with work tools.
Technical Improvements
Skype’s technology has not kept up with modern communication apps, which is one of the main reasons Microsoft is shutting down Skype. The platform was originally designed for peer-to-peer connections, which worked well in the past but is now inefficient compared to cloud-based services like Microsoft Teams.
Newer platforms offer better video calls, phone calls, and messaging with lower latency, improved security, and better integration with other tools.
Skype users have also faced issues with call quality, dropped connections, and lag, especially when using mobile data plans or slower networks.
What to Do Before Skype Shuts Down
With around 60 days left before shutting down Skype, now is the time to decide your next move. You need a phone service that’s reliable, easy to use, and built for business calls. Like Talkroute.
If you’re in the U.S. or Canada, you can move your existing Skype number to Talkroute. This way, you can keep your number and continue receiving calls without interruption.
But why? Here are a few reasons why this is the best move:
You Don’t Need the Internet for Calls
Skype relies on an internet connection, which means dropped calls and bad audio when your Wi-Fi isn’t strong. Talkroute works on any phone, including landlines and mobile, without needing an app or internet.
Keep Your Existing Phone Number
With Talkroute, you can port your Skype number and keep it working just like before. Your callers won’t notice a difference.
Business-Friendly Features
Talkroute is designed for professional calls, making it a better option for business users. It includes call forwarding to any phone, so you never miss important calls. The auto-attendant (virtual receptionist) helps direct callers to the right person without needing a live operator.
Voicemail to email ensures you can check messages anytime, even when you’re away. Talkroute also offers call menus (press 1 for sales, press 2 for support, etc.), making it easy for customers to reach the right department.
Skype didn’t offer these advanced features, which is why Talkroute is the smarter choice for business communication.
No App Required
With Skype, you had to keep the app open to take calls. Talkroute works on any phone, even landlines. Just answer like a normal call—no extra steps needed.
Simple, Predictable Pricing
Skype charged for phone numbers, calling plans, and extra features. Talkroute offers straightforward monthly plans with no per-minute fees and no hidden costs.
How to Port Your Skype Number to Talkroute
Porting your number means moving it from Skype to Talkroute. Your number will become a virtual phone number, and all calls will go through Talkroute instead of Skype.
Don’t worry—your number will still work normally while the transfer is in progress. Once the process is complete, your number will officially be part of Talkroute.
Step 1: Log Into Talkroute and Start the Porting Process
Log into your Talkroute account. In the dashboard, scroll down to the Virtual Phone Numbers section and click “Add / Port Phone Number +”.
Step 2: Enter Your Number and Provider Details
Type in the Skype number you want to transfer and the name of your current provider. Then, click “Port Number”.
Step 3: Confirm the Port Request
Read the Terms & Conditions and click “Yes, I understand and wish to submit this request”.
Step 4: Check Your Email for Follow-up Instructions
A Talkroute team member will send you an email with the next steps. Follow their instructions to complete the process.
A better phone system with your existing number. Try Talkroute free today! Sign up now.
How Long Does Switching to Talkroute Take?
The porting process usually takes 5-7 business days. While waiting, your Skype number will continue working as usual. On the final transfer date, your number will switch to Talkroute without any downtime.
Here are things to keep in mind:
- Possible charges – Porting your number might include an activation charge and a change in your monthly bill.
- Trial impact – If you’re on a Talkroute trial, porting a number will end your trial immediately.
- Number management – You can add or remove phone numbers anytime through your Talkroute account.
Experience a Smarter Way of Communication With Talkroute
If you use Skype to talk to your customers, perhaps this shutdown is a sign to finally move to a professional business communication platform.
Get your very own virtual phone number and effortlessly connect to your customers with Talkroute. Our phone system offers everything you need in one easy-to-use app.
- Business calls from any device – Make and receive calls using your desktop, mobile, or web browser without the need for extra hardware.
- Text messaging with your business number – Send and manage business texts using your toll-free or local phone number.
- Video meetings with up to 100 participants – Host and join video meetings with screen sharing, chat, and collaboration tools.
- Smart call forwarding and routing – Direct calls to the right team members, whether they’re in the office or working remotely.
- Voicemail, call recordings, and team chat – Access and manage messages, call recordings, and internal team chats from one central hub.
FAQs About Skype Shutting Down
What is replacing Skype?
Microsoft is finally shutting Skype on May 5, 2025, and is encouraging all Skype users to switch to Microsoft Teams Free. The Teams app offers the same Skype features, like video calls, phone calls, and messaging, but with better integration across devices. Microsoft wants users to move to Teams Microsoft, which works well with its other services.
Why is Skype closing itself?
Microsoft is shutting down Skype to focus on Teams Microsoft, which has more advanced tools for both personal and business use.
Over time, Skype has lost users to other communication apps that offer better performance on mobile data plans and internet protocol calling.
While some services like the Skype dial pad, Skype phone number, and Skype web portal are still active, they will no longer be available after May 5, 2025.
What is going on with Skype?
Skype is being phased out, and Microsoft is directing Skype users to transition to the Teams app. The company has already retired older services like Windows Live Messenger and Windows Phone, so it’s not surprising that Skype is next.
Users who rely on Skype data, Skype credentials, and Skype credits will need to migrate before the shutdown. The free version of Teams will help users continue making phone calls and using similar features.
Is Microsoft getting rid of Skype?
Yes, Microsoft is finally shutting down Skype on May 5, 2025. The company wants to integrate Skype users into Teams Microsoft instead.
Features like the Skype app, Skype dial pad, and Skype web portal will no longer be available after the shutdown.
Skype phone numbers and Skype credits will also stop working. Users should start using Microsoft Teams Free, which offers a free version for personal use with many of the same Skype features.
Stephanie
Stephanie is the Marketing Director at Talkroute and has been featured in Forbes, Inc, and Entrepreneur as a leading authority on business and telecommunications.
Stephanie is also the chief editor and contributing author for the Talkroute blog helping more than 200k entrepreneurs to start, run, and grow their businesses.
