Before Zoom, Skype was the dominant internet-based phone and video service for the masses. After 22 years of working (Microsoft’s 14 years), the customer was shocked to learn that in May 2025 Microsoft had decided to cancel Skype.
So, “Pat” emails urged them to explore Skype alternatives.
“Hello, it appears Microsoft is getting rid of Skype. I use Skype every weekend to communicate with Irish families. Any alternative recommendations? Thank you.” – Pat, Comer Township, Michigan
It’s a bit unsettling for longtime Skype users, but Microsoft has actually cancelled Skype due to a sudden competition over the same type of service as Zoom and WhatsApp. Changes may not be welcome, but there are many options to choose from after Skype collapses.
The company said on its website that “Your Skype data will be available for export or removal by January 2026. Microsoft Teams are free By then, your Skype call and chat history will be available. If you do not perform an action, the Skype data will be deleted in January 2026. ”
Below are the top Skype alternatives: This is a way to maintain connections with people who are personally and professionally interested in, and export contacts and other important information from Skype.
Woman using Skype on laptop (Kurt “Cyberguy” Knutsson)
Top 6 Skype alternatives
Changes can be difficult, but the following Skype alternatives listed below don’t need to be difficult.
Microsoft Team
A simple transition from Skype with Microsoft interrupting Skype and investing attention and resources in Microsoft teams. Microsoft Teams allow you to sign in to your existing Skype credentials, making migration easier. There is a free version of the Microsoft team that Microsoft encourages Skype users to use. Like Skype, it includes video calls and messaging. The advantage of signing up for a Microsoft Team is that your Skype contacts and message history will automatically be migrated to the Microsoft Team.
What is Artificial Intelligence (AI)?
Man using Skype on laptop (Kurt “Cyberguy” Knutsson)
WhatsApp is a popular messaging app that has been around since 2009. It offers free voice and video calls with end-to-end encryption, providing an additional layer of protection for your communications. You can also send messages to other users. WhatsApp is also a great international communication tool as it is used all over the world.
How to stay connected no matter where you travel in the world
Google Meet
If you are already using Google services such as Gmail or Google Calendar, Google Meet could be a seamless alternative to Skype. Google Meet is a free video conferencing service that integrates Gmail and Google Calendar. If you have a free plan, you can include up to 100 participants in your video call.
zoom
Zoom has become a regular fixture in the modern professional world. With its user-friendly interface and rich features, Zoom is the biggest choice for video calling. Zoom offers a free plan that allows for 40 minutes of video calls per call of up to 100 participants.
Click here to get your Fox business on the go
signal
For those with privacy concerns, Signal is a great alternative to Skype. End-to-end encryption of messaging and video calls is proud to keep your communications secure. Signal is an open source service that allows users to send instant messages and voice calls.
discord
Although well known among gamers, Discord has become a versatile communication tool. Free voice channels, screen sharing and low latency audio (better audio quality) make it stand out as a great group call option.
How to export contacts and messages from Skype
Microsoft will provide you with exporting or deleting Skype contacts, chats and files history by January 2026, but it’s best to log in and start the process as it takes a while for your company to fulfill your request.
To export your contacts, follow these steps:
- In a web browser, go Log in to your Skype account Use your username and password
- On the main page, you will be taken to the account details Settings and preferences
- click Export Contact
- A dialog box will appear and select the desired location Save the file Click keep
Steps to export Skype contacts (Kurt “Cyberguy” Knutsson)
Microsoft Teams are becoming a major target for sophisticated scammers
To export a conversation or file, follow these steps:
- In a web browser, go Log in to your Skype account Use your username and password
- On the main page, you will be taken to the account details Settings and preferences
- click Export files and chat history
- Under “Please request a copy of your file and chat history” Check the box Download and click Submit a request
- Once the request is processed it will do so Show at the top of the same page
- Click to save download
Steps to export Skype conversations and files (Kurt “Cyberguy” Knutsson)
How to export Skype data and import it to other video platforms
Before Skype officially shuts down on May 27, 2025, it’s a sensible move to store your data and prepare you for a transition to another platform. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Export Skype data
You can request a full Skype chat history download, call logs and other personal data.
- I’m going to Skype Export Page: https://go.skype.com/export
- Sign in with your Skype (Microsoft) account.
- Please select the one you want to download.conversation: Chat logs, SMS, and call recordsfile: Photos, videos, documents shared via Skype
- conversation: Chat logs, SMS, and call records
- file: Photos, videos, documents shared via Skype
- click Submit a request Wait for the email or download link to appear (it may take hours or days depending on the volume).
- When ready, download the .zip file and extract the content to your device.
Exported messages are usually in .TAR or .JSON format and can be opened in apps such as Notepad, Excel, or a dedicated audience.
Step 2: Import the information to the new platform
Skype doesn’t provide a direct import tool to other platforms, but here are some ways to carry information around.
Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, Slack, WhatsApp:
- contact address: Copy your email address or phone number and add contacts manually from Skype export.
- Chat history: Most platforms do not allow direct imports, but you can: Saves Skype conversations as PDF or text files for reference. Important conversations with cloud services Google Drive, Dropbox or onedrive Keep them searchable and accessible.
- Save Skype conversations as PDF or text files.
- Upload important conversations to cloud services Google Drive, Dropbox or onedrive Keep them searchable and accessible.
Using Skype Data with Microsoft Teams:
- The team is the most seamless switch as it is Skype’s Microsoft’s recommended replacement.
- If your account is associated with Microsoft 365, contacts may already sync with your team.
- Chat history will not be migrated automatically, but you can view the exported chats when you set up a new team channel or chat.
How to remotely fix family computer issues from afar
Important takeouts in your cart
The end of Skype on May 5, 2025 is calm, but the transition time to an alternative platform is essential, so you can also continue to communicate professionally and personally with others with your setup and coordination. The friendly and familiar Sky Blue interface is overlooked, but there are several options to fill in the big empty shoes that Skype leaves behind. Whether you can migrate contacts and messages directly from Skype to your Microsoft team or prefer signal security, there are plenty of options to keep you connected with your loved ones around the world.
Click here to get the Fox News app
Are you a Skype user? Are you planning to switch to one of the TopSkype alternatives? Why or why? Write us and let us know cyberguy.com/contact.
For more information about my tech tips and security alerts, sign up for our free Cyberguy Report Newsletter cyberguy.com/newsletter.
Please ask your cart or tell us what stories you would like us to cover.
Follow your cart on his social channels:
Answers to the most accused Cyber Guy questions:
New from Cart:
Copyright 2025 cyberguy.com. Unauthorized reproduction is prohibited.
