Skype has been a go-to app for video calls and meetings for years. But Microsoft has announced that it will shut down the original Skype app on May 5th, 2025. Don’t worry though, there are plenty of other great apps you can use instead. Let’s take a look at five alternatives that can keep you connected even after Skype is gone.
Why is Skype Shutting Down?
Microsoft is focusing on its platform called Microsoft Teams. Teams has more features than Skype, like tools for working together, sharing files, and making video calls. So, Skype is being retired, and those core features are moving to Teams.
Top 5 Skype Alternatives for Calls and Meetings
If you don’t want to use Microsoft Teams, here are five apps you can try:
- WhatsApp: The Popular Messenger
WhatsApp is one of the most popular apps for texting, voice calls, and video calls. It’s easy to use and works on most phones. Plus, it has end-to-end encryption to keep your conversations private.
- Pros: Easy to use, secure, works across devices.
- Cons: Works best on phones, the desktop version isn’t as smooth.
- Google Meet: Great for Google Users
If you use Gmail or other Google services, Google Meet is a great choice. It’s easy to set up meetings and has good video and audio quality. Plus, it works well with Google Calendar and other apps.
- Pros: Works well with Google services, easy to use, reliable.
- Cons: You need a Google account to use it.
- Zoom: The Popular Meeting App
Zoom became famous during the pandemic and is still one of the best options for video meetings. It has a lot of features like screen sharing and virtual backgrounds. It’s perfect for both small and large meetings.
- Pros: Packed with features, great for big meetings.
- Cons: The free version limits meeting time, had some security issues in the past.
- Signal: The Privacy-Focused App
If privacy is important to you, Signal is an excellent choice. It’s an open-source app that uses strong encryption to keep your messages and calls private.
- Pros: Very secure, open-source, protects your privacy.
- Cons: Not as many people use it, you might need to ask your contacts to switch.
- Discord: More Than Just Gaming
Discord is popular with gamers, but it’s a great option for anyone looking for high-quality voice and video calls. You can set up servers for different groups or projects, and it has many features to customize your experience.
- Pros: Great voice quality, customizable, good for groups.
- Cons: It can be confusing for new users, best for group communication.
How to Make the Switch
To make the change from Skype easier, start using these alternatives now. Test out a few to find the one that works best for you, and let your contacts know about the change. This way, you’ll be ready when Skype shuts down in May 2025.
Read More: Say Goodbye to Skype: How Microsoft’s this Decision Affects Our Lives!
Embrace New Ways to Stay Connected
It’s always a little sad when an app we’ve used for years disappears, but technology is always changing. By switching to one of these Skype alternatives, you’ll be able to stay connected with friends, family, and colleagues, and enjoy all the features these new apps offer.
