Don’t Over-Complicate Things The user experience became
added “Highlights,” similar to Instagram Stories, which didn’t resonate with many users looking for a core communication tool rather than social media features. Start a New Relationship The shift in Microsoft’s priorities became clear when it launched Teams in 2017. Whether the remaining Skype users stick with the familiar and embrace Teams, or seek alternatives like Zoom, WhatsApp, Google Meet or FaceTime remains to be seen. Sadly, paid Skype services will be discontinued. Features like Skype Credit and international calling subscriptions will no longer be available for new customers, and existing users will have limited access after the shutdown date. Current Skype subscription users can continue to use their Skype Credits and subscriptions until the end of their next renewal period. After 5 May 2025, the Skype Dial Pad will be available to remaining paid users from the Skype web portal and within Teams.
complicated for Skype customers, especially with features most core users did not want or need. Microsoft should have refined the core video call experience. Frequent redesigns meant the app underwent major UI changes that confused users. The introduction of chatbots and third-party add-ins added to the complexity for users who merely wanted a straightforward messaging and calling service. Microsoft’s digital assistant, Cortana, within Skype, was not universally welcomed. Some users found it intrusive, especially when it attempted to offer suggestions during conversations. Over time, Skype’s settings became more layered, making navigation and customisation more cumbersome for users seeking simplicity. Long loading times and glitches frustrated both personal and business users. Integration with services like OneDrive, LinkedIn, and Microsoft Office can sometimes complicate the user interface and workflow for those who primarily want a simple communication tool. Skype
Jeff Teper, Microsoft President – Microsoft 365 Collaborative Apps & Platforms sets out the choices and steps current Skype users should take before 5 May 2025, see here for the full blog. During this transition period: 1 Move to Microsoft Teams for free. MS will enable Skype users to sign into Teams (free) using their Skype credentials. By logging in to Teams with a Skype account, chats and contacts will automatically appear in the app. Teams users can call and chat with Skype users, and vice versa, during the transition. 2 Export your Skype data . If you prefer not to migrate to Teams, you can instead export your data including chats, contacts, and call history. How to get started with Teams for free, with 3 steps: 1. Download Teams on your device from the official Microsoft Teams website . 2. Log in with your Skype credentials. 3. Start using Teams with all your Skype chats and contacts ready to go.
Jeff Teper President – Microsoft 365 Collaborative Apps & Platforms
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