Microsoft announces it will close down Skype in May in favor of Teams

Microsoft on Friday announced that it would close down the video-calling platform Skype, which helped transform global communication, in favor of a free version of its program Microsoft Teams. 

The technology company purchased Skype from E-Bay in 2011, for $8.5 billion. The platform saw a surge in use during President Donald Trump's first administration, when he used the platform to answer reporters during a press briefing in 2017, per the Associated Press.

Microsoft said that it was closing the platform this May in order to streamline its "free consumer communications offerings" by moving completely to a free version of its Teams program, which also features international video calls.

"With Teams, users have access to many of the same core features they use in Skype, such as one-on-one calls and group calls, messaging, and file sharing," the company said. "Additionally, Teams offers enhanced features like hosting meetings, managing calendars, and building and joining communities for free."

Microsoft said that it would help migrate Skype users over to the new system, which will start in the "coming days." Skype users will be given the ability to sign into Teams on any supported device using their Skype login.

Users who have already purchased subscriptions or credits will be allowed to retain those, but they will not be able to purchase any more. After the transition to Teams is complete, the Skype Dial Pad will be "available to remaining paid users" on the Teams app.

"Skype has been an integral part of shaping modern communications and supporting countless meaningful moments, and we are honored to have been part of the journey," the company said. "We also understand that change can be challenging and want you to know that we’re here to support you every step of the way. 

"We’re excited about the new opportunities that Teams brings and are committed to helping you stay connected in new and meaningful ways," it concluded.

People looking to use Teams right away can register here. Skype will officially close on May 5.

Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.