Before zoom, Skype was the major internet-based phone and video service for the public. After 22 years of service (14 years under Microsoft), customers were surprised to know that Microsoft decided to shut down Skype in May 2025.
So “Pat” email inspired us to find out the option of Skype.
“Hello, apparently getting rid of Microsoft Skype. We use every weekend Skype to communicate with our family in Ireland. Do you have recommendations for an option? Thanks.” – Pat, Commerce Township, Michigan
Although a little unnecessary for long -term Skype users, Microsoft is actually shutting down the Skype because due to the standing competition for the same type of service from the choice of zoom and WhatsApp. While changes can be unwanted, there are many options to choose from Skype bow once.
The company said on its website that “your Skype data will be available by January 2026, which is for you to export or remove. If you log in. Microsoft teams free Till then, your Skype call and chat history will be available to you. If you do not take any action, your Skype data will be removed in January 2026. ,
Below are the top options of Skype, which will help you to stay connected with those individually and professional, as well as how to export your contacts and other important information from Skype.
A woman using Skype on a laptop (Kurt “Cybergui” Notson)
Top 6 Skype Options
While changes can be challenging, it is not difficult with the following Skype options listed below.
Microsoft Team
Microsoft closed Skype to invest its attention and resources in Microsoft teams, it is an easy infection from Skype. Microsoft teams will allow you to sign in with your existing Skype credentials, making the infection easier. Microsoft is a free version of teams that Microsoft is encouraging users to use users. Like Skype, it includes video calls and messaging. The advantage of signing up for Microsoft teams is that your Skype contact and message history will automatically migrate to Microsoft teams.
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A man using Skype on his laptop (Kurt “Cybergui” Notson)
WhatsApp is a popular messaging app around 2009. It provides free voice and video calls with end-to-end encryption, giving your communication an additional layer of safety. This also allows you to convey a message with other users. Additionally, because it is used worldwide, WhatsApp is a great international communication tool.
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Google Meat
If you already use Google services such as Gmail and Google Calendar, Google Meet Skype can be a spontaneous option. Google Meet is a free video-conferencing service that integrates Gmail and Google calendar. With free plans, you can include 100 participants on a video call.
Zoom
The zoom has become a regular stability in the modern professional world. With the user -friendly interface and rich features, the top option for zoom video calls has been. Zoom provides free plans that allow for 100-minute video calls per call for 100 participants.
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Signal
For people with concerns about privacy, signal is a great option for Skype. It claims end-to-end encryption on messages and video calls, which protect your communication. Signal is an open-source service that allows users to send immediate messages as well as voice and video calls.
Strings
Well known among gamers, the discord has become a versatile communication tool. With free voice channels, screen sharing and low-altency audio (better audio quality), it has begun to stand as a good group call option.
How to export contacts and messages with Skype
Although Microsoft will give you your Skype contacts, chat and file history by January 2026, it is best to log in and start the process now, as it may take a little time for the company to fulfill your request.
To export contacts, follow these steps:
- Go to your web browser, and Log in your Skype account Using your user name and password
- On the main page, under account details, go on Settings and priorities
- Click Export contact
- A dialog box will appear, then choose where you want save the file And click save
Steps to export Skype contacts (Kurt “Cybergui” Notson)
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To export conversations and files, follow these steps:
- Go to your web browser, and Log in your Skype account Using your user name and password
- On the main page, under account details, go on Settings and priorities
- Click Export files and chat history
- “A copy of your files and request chat history,” Check boxes You want to download and click submit request
- Once the request is processed, it will be Show on top of the same page
- Click to save download
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Skype conversation and step to export files (Kurt “Cybergui” Notson)
How to export your Skype data and import it to other video platforms
Skype is officially a smart move to protect your data and prepare for transition on other platforms before closing on 27 May 2025. How to do this here:
Step 1: Export your Skype data
You can request full download of your Skype chat history, call log and other personal data.
- Go to Skype export page, https://go.skype.com/export
- Sign in with your Skype (Microsoft) account.
- Choose what you want to download:Conversations: Chat log, SMS and call recordsFiles: Photos, videos and documents shared through Skype
- Conversations: Chat log, SMS and call records
- Files: Photos, videos and documents shared through Skype
- Click submit request And wait for an email or download link (it may take hours or a few days depending on the volume).
- When ready, download the .ZIP file and remove the content on your device.
Exported messages are usually in a .tar or .JSON format, which can be opened with apps such as notepad, excel or dedicated audiences.
Step 2: Import your information on a new platform
While Skype does not provide a direct import equipment for other platforms, here are some ways to carry your information:
Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Meat, Slack or WhatsApp:
- Contact: You can manually add contact with your Skype exports by mimicking your email address or phone number.
- chat history: Most platforms will not allow direct imports, but you can: Save your Skype conversations as PDF or text files for reference. Google Drive, Dropbox Or One campaign To discover them and accessible.
- Save your Skype conversations as PDF or text files for reference.
- Like upload important conversations for cloud services Google Drive, Dropbox Or One campaign To discover them and accessible.
Using Skype Data on Microsoft Teams:
- Since teams are the recommended replacement of Microsoft for Skype, it is the most spontaneous switch.
- If your account is connected to Microsoft 365, your contacts may already be sinks for teams.
- Chat history does not automatically migrate, but you can refer to export chat when setting new teams channels or chats.
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Kurt’s major takeaways
While the end of Skype on May 5, 2025 is very quiet, the time to transition to an alternative platform is mandatory, so you can set up and adjust to continue communicating with the professional and individually with others. Although the favorable and familiar sky-blue interface will be remembered, there are many options that fill those large empty shoes that will leave Skype. Whether you prefer the ease of being able to migrate contacts and messages from Skype to Microsoft teams directly or prefer the safety of signals, you have a reward of options to keep loved ones connected worldwide.
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