The announcement of the Skype closure in May of this year Mark the end of an era in digital communication. According to Microsoft, the platform, which in its peak had 150 million users, has seen its user base reduced to approximately 23 million in 2020. This decline is partly due to the competence of services such as Facetime and Zoom.
However, and despite their closure, Skype users can use their credentials to access Microsoft Teams, where their chats and contacts will migrate automatically.
“In Acer, we understand that digital communication has become a fundamental pillar of our interconnected society. The laptops have evolved from simple work tools to nerve centers of human connection, allowing face to face conversations regardless of distance,” the leading company in the PC market said in a statement.
And they added: “The recent news about Skype’s closure reminds us of how communication technology has evolved, from the first revolutionary services to the multiple current platforms.”
Microsoft Teams is emerging as Skype’s natural successor. According to Microsoft, Teams not only offers similar functions such as voice and video calls, messaging and sharing files, but also includes advanced features such as the organization of meetings and calendar management.
This platform is already widely used by individuals, schools and companies, consolidating as a robust alternative.
Another outstanding option is Zoom, which since its foundation in 2011 has gained popularity especially during the pandemic. He has a fluid video call experience and his business service, Zoom Workplace, Optimizes hybrid work with functions such as meetings and reserves of work spaces.
Google Meet also presents itself as a viable alternative, integrating perfectly with Google Workspace and offering tools such as live subtitles and automatic lighting and noise settings.
Chanty and Cisco Webex are other platforms that offer collaboration solutions. Chanty, used by more than 75,000 companies, provides instant messaging and task management, while Cisco Webex allows you to share screen and record meetings, with an approach to safety and privacy.
For those looking for open source options, Jitsi has free videoconference solutions, allowing users to share documents and transmit conferences to YouTube.
Mirotalk SFU is another free option that does not require download or session latefacilitating direct communication through the browser.
Discord, with more than two hundred million users, is popular among video game players, allowing the creation of virtual communities. WhatsApp, Meta owned, remains a popular option for messaging and calls, with end -to -end encryption for greater security.
Finally, Streamyard stands out as a live broadcast platform, Ideal for content creators and companies seeking to interact with a global audience. It offers multitransmission and video design tools, being also useful as a podcast recording study.
According to the official Skype information, From this first week of May the changes are made to stop workinga decision that impacts both free users and those who have paying subscriptions, excluding those who use business Skype.
Users should start using free Microsoft Teams, accessing their Skype credentials. When you log in to Teams, contacts and chats will be transferred automatically.
In addition, a notification will be sent in the Skype application requesting the migration of the data.
Those who choose not to use free teams will have the possibility to export their data from Skype
The Skype call plans and numbers were automatically renewed until April 3, 2025. After May 2025, the marking panel will continue available for users remaining payments through the Skype web portal and in free Teams. For those who wish to keep their Skype number, it is indicated that they must contact a new operator to carry out the portability of the number.
Now, people who first register in Skype will no longer be able to acquire credit or hire plans for national or international calls.
Skype closure reflects the constant evolution of communication technology.
