After 23 years of connecting people across the globe, Skype, the renowned video-calling service, is officially shutting down on May 5, 2025. Microsoft, the parent company, has confirmed this sunset date, marking the end of an era for millions of users worldwide. As Skype users face this transition, they have two main options: migrate their contacts and chat data to Microsoft Teams or download their Skype data and switch to another video-calling service. To facilitate this process, we’ve created a comprehensive guide to help users migrate to Teams or download their Skype data.
For those looking to make the switch, Skype users can easily sign in to Microsoft Teams for free using their existing Skype credentials. Once logged in, all chats and contacts will automatically transfer to the Teams app. Microsoft Teams offers a range of features similar to Skype, including one-on-one and group calls, messaging, and file sharing.
While Skype was primarily designed for smaller groups (up to 20 participants) and casual use, Teams is tailored for business environments, accommodating up to 10,000 participants in a single video call. Moreover, Teams provides advanced security features and integrates with various platforms, such as Evernote, OneDrive, Office 365, Salesforce, SharePoint, and Trello. This makes Teams a powerful choice for both personal and professional communication. Teams is accessible on Android, iOS, Mac, PC, and the web, ensuring versatility for users.
For users who prefer not to transition to Microsoft Teams, it’s advisable to export their Skype account data. This ensures that important information, such as messages, files, and contact details, is securely backed up for future access. Here’s how to export your data:
Open Skype and log in to your account.Click on the three horizontal dots located under your account name in the top left corner.Navigate to Settings > Account & Profile > Your Account.You will be redirected to Skype’s web portal. Choose to either Export contacts (.csv), Export Caller ID numbers (.csv), or Export files and chat history.Select the “Export files and chat history” option to download your conversations and files.Click Submit Request and Continue. Once the export is complete, click Download to save your data.As Skype users seek alternatives for video calling, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best options available:
Google Meet is a widely used video conferencing tool that offers a free plan for users with a Google account. This platform allows meetings with up to 100 participants, screen sharing, and recording capabilities. However, the free version limits meetings with more than three participants to a 60-minute duration. For larger organizations, Google Workspace plans start at $7/month and offer additional features like breakout rooms, polls, and AI-powered tools through its Gemini assistant, enhancing the meeting experience.
Zoom has become a staple in the video conferencing landscape, allowing up to 100 participants in meetings with private and public chat options. It includes useful features such as meeting recording and transcriptions. Notably, the free plan imposes a 40-minute time limit on meetings, prompting users to consider subscription options ranging from $13/month to $18/month for extended features, including AI tools that summarize meetings.
Owned by Cisco, Webex offers a similar suite of features as its competitors, including screen sharing, meeting recording, and collaboration tools. The free plan allows up to 100 attendees but also comes with a 40-minute time limit. Paid plans, starting from $12/month, include an AI assistant and the ability to host up to 1,000 attendees.
Initially designed for gamers, Discord has evolved into a versatile communication platform suitable for personal use or smaller teams. It allows unlimited meeting lengths but is limited to 25 participants. Discord features include screen sharing and the option to record meetings. With a free plan and two affordable paid options at $5/month and $10/month, Discord caters to various user needs.
While Slack may not be the best choice for formal meetings, it excels in facilitating spontaneous discussions among team members. The Huddle feature allows users to easily transition from chat threads to informal audio or video calls. The free plan accommodates only two participants, while paid plans (starting at $7/month) allow for up to 50 participants in Huddles.
Signal, known for its strong encryption, has offered group video-calling features since 2020, accommodating up to 50 participants per call. Although it’s not a direct competitor to Skype, Signal enables users to share call links, making it easy for others to join without creating a group. Best of all, Signal is completely free to use.
As Skype users transition to new platforms, exploring these alternatives can help ensure seamless communication moving forward. Whether opting for Microsoft Teams or one of the other video-calling services, users have numerous options to stay connected.
