The American tech titan has announced its videoconferencing application - which launched in August 2003 - will retire on Monday, May 5, 2025.

It comes as it wants users to shift to its modern Teams (free) platform - which offers the same service.

Skype users will be able to move over to for free and can sign into the software on any supported device using their Skype account.

With this, their chats and contacts will automatically be transferred over.

For those who wish to not use Teams (free), they have the option for their chats, contacts, and call history to be exported.

Jeff Teper, president, collaborative apps and platforms, said in a blog post: "The way we communicate has evolved significantly over the years. From instant messaging to video calls, technology has continuously transformed how we connect with each other. 

"In order to streamline our free consumer communications offerings so we can more easily adapt to customer needs, we will be retiring Skype in May 2025 to focus on Microsoft Teams (free), our modern communications and collaboration hub. 

"As we take this next step with Teams, we’re excited about the opportunities ahead. We look forward to continuing to support people’s everyday connections."

He continued: "Skype has been an integral part of shaping modern communications and supporting countless meaningful moments, and we are honored to have been part of the journey. 

"We also understand that change can be challenging and want you to know that we’re here to support you every step of the way.

"We’re excited about the new opportunities that Teams brings and are committed to helping you stay connected in new and meaningful ways."