If you’re one of those who still uses Skype to catch up with your kids, check in with family overseas, or even run your book club, it’s time to move on, have the funeral, and switch to something new. Microsoft is officially shutting down Skype after 21 years, and while it’s not exactly shocking, it does mark the end of an era.
In 2011, Microsoft spent over $8 billion to acquire Skype, a platform with over 100 million users at its peak. It was the original video calling app – the futuristic way to stay connected. But despite its popularity, no one ever figured out how to turn it into a profitable business. Even eBay gave it a shot and failed. And when Microsoft launched Teams, it was clear that Skype was being left behind.
You’d think 2020 would’ve been Skype’s time to shine. But instead of becoming the go-to platform for virtual meetups, it was completely overshadowed by Zoom. Even Microsoft chose Teams over its own creation.
So here we are. It’s time to move on. FaceTime, Zoom, Google Meet, What’s App, Teams – take your pick. Just don’t be the last one clinging to a platform that Microsoft itself has left behind. RIP, Skype – you had a good run.
