As Skype officially retires in May 2025, Microsoft is encouraging users to move to Microsoft Teams (free) for their communication needs. If you’re a long-time Skype user, this guide will help you transition smoothly to Teams while keeping your contacts, chats, and calling capabilities intact.

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1. Download & Set Up Microsoft Teams

On Desktop (Windows/Mac):

1. Visit Microsoft Teams website.
2. Click Download for Desktop and install the application.
3. Open Microsoft Teams and sign in using your Skype account credentials (Microsoft Account).

On Mobile (iOS/Android):

1. Go to the App Store (iPhone) or Google Play Store (Android).
2. Search for Microsoft Teams and download the app.
3. Open the app and log in with your Skype account.

💡 Tip: If you already use Microsoft Teams for work, you can switch to the personal version by selecting your profile icon and choosing Add another account.

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2. Import Your Skype Contacts & Chat History

Microsoft has made the transition easy by automatically linking Skype contacts to Teams.

• Once logged into Teams, go to Chat > Contacts to see your Skype friends.
• Your chat history should also be available, but if you don’t see older messages, visit Skype Export to download them.

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3. Using Microsoft Teams for Calls & Chats

Making Calls (Like Skype):

• Click on Calls in the left menu.
• Select a contact or enter a phone number (Teams supports free one-on-one and group calls).
• To make a video call, click on the Video icon.

Sending Messages:

• Go to Chat and start a new conversation by selecting New Chat (pen icon).
• Type your message and hit Send (paper plane icon).

💡 Tip: If your contacts are still using Skype, you can message them directly from Teams!

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4. Managing Skype Credit & Paid Features

• Skype Credits: If you have remaining Skype credits, they will be usable until May 5, 2025. After that, Microsoft will discontinue Skype’s paid calling services.
• International Calling in Teams: You can still make international calls in Teams using Teams Phone (paid feature).

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5. Exploring New Features in Microsoft Teams

Teams is more than just a Skype replacement. Here are some exciting upgrades:

✅ Group Chats with Up to 100 People – Unlike Skype’s 50-person limit.
✅ AI-Powered Features – Get meeting summaries & smart replies with Microsoft’s Copilot AI.
✅ Communities & Shared Spaces – Perfect for clubs, families, and friends.
✅ Screen Sharing & File Sharing – Directly send files from OneDrive or your device.

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6. Customizing Teams for a Better Experience

• Change Your Notification Settings – Go to Settings > Notifications to manage alerts.
• Set Up Custom Backgrounds – Like Skype, Teams lets you add background effects during video calls.
• Use Dark Mode – Enable Dark Mode in Settings > Appearance for a better visual experience.

7. Saying Goodbye to Skype & Embracing Teams

With Skype shutting down in 2025, moving to Teams is essential for uninterrupted communication. The transition is seamless, and Microsoft Teams offers a better, more modern experience for messaging, calling, and collaboration.

If you haven’t already, download Teams today and start exploring its features before Skype is officially discontinued!