Skype may be closing down soon

In recent years, Skype has become outdated and lost a significant number of users as it has fallen behind many other advanced group communication platforms. The problem is even more serious when Teams has now become the official “successor”. Therefore, it is not too unbelievable that Microsoft may soon kill Skype after 21 years of existence.

Microsoft appears to be taking the necessary steps to pull the plug on Skype. In the latest preview of the Skype app for Insiders, Microsoft has added a text string to the notification dialog. When triggered, the dialog will inform logged-in users that Skype will no longer be available starting in May. Those who want to stay in touch with their Skype friends will be directed to download the free version of Microsoft Teams to continue using it.

A tech blogger tried downloading and installing the latest Insider build of Skype for Desktop, version 8.137.76.425. Then, to extract the text strings, the app.asar file was extracted from the "resources" folder at Program Files > Microsoft > Skype for Desktop, and the file was then opened using 7-Zip with the Asar7z plugin.

Skype may be closing down soon

Once unzipped, you can find text strings for all languages ​​in separate JSON files in the "resources" folder. New text strings added by Microsoft that are related to Skype's impending shutdown include:

"TFLMigration":{"RibbonMessage":"Starting in May, Skype will no longer be available. Continue your calls and chats in Teams.","RibbonButtonLabel":"Start using Teams","RibbonMobileButtonLabel":"Get","BannerTitle":"Move to Teams today","BannerContent":"{userCount} of your friends have already moved to Teams Free","ChatInTeamsButtonText":"Chat in Teams","LearnMoreButtonText":"Learn more","DialogTitle":"Microsoft Teams","DownloadingMessage":"Downloading Microsoft Teams...","InstallingMessage":"Installing Microsoft Teams...","OpeningMessage":"Opening Microsoft Teams...","InformationMessage":"Teams will open automatically once the installation is complete.","CancelButtonLabel":"Cancel"},

  • RibbonMessage: Notifies users that Skype will be shutting down in May and guides them to migrate to Teams.
  • BannerContent: Tracks contacts who have migrated to Teams and notifies them of a specific number.
    These strings will apparently be used in a dialog or ribbon notification to alert users that Skype is being shut down. As of now, these strings are not enabled in the app, and Microsoft has not officially announced plans to shut down Skype.

Skype has seen a sharp decline in user numbers over the past few years. Most business users have migrated to Teams, while many personal users have moved to other more popular instant messaging/VoIP apps.

While Microsoft continues to update Skype, updates are becoming increasingly rare. In fact, Skype is still suitable for some use cases, such as international calls via VoIP or video calls with elderly relatives. However, Microsoft recently discontinued Skype Credits and directed users to a subscription plan.

Back in 2013, Windows Live Messenger was discontinued, and its users were migrated to Skype—the experience wasn't exactly the same, but the transition was smooth. Now, 12 years later, Skype may be having a similar moment to Messenger. But we're not sure how big of an impact it will have.

Leave a Comment

How to Fix Skype Blue Screen Error: Updated Solutions for 2024, 2025

How to Fix Skype Blue Screen Error: Updated Solutions for 2024, 2025

Learn how to fix Skype blue screen errors, an issue affecting many users in 2024 and 2025. Get the latest tips and solutions for optimal performance.

How to use Skype application on Smart TV TCL

How to use Skype application on Smart TV TCL

Learn how to use Skype on your Smart TV TCL for seamless communication. This guide covers installation, login, camera connection, and more.

How To Send A Message To Yourself In Skype

How To Send A Message To Yourself In Skype

Learn how to send a message to yourself in Skype using a simple workaround. This guide offers step-by-step instructions for Android, iPhone, Mac, and Windows users.

5 Best Skype Alternatives for International Calling

5 Best Skype Alternatives for International Calling

After more than 20 years, Skype is officially shutting down, with Microsoft announcing it will shut down the venerable, long-standing service on May 5, 2025.

How to add green screen to Zoom, Skype, Microsoft Teams

How to add green screen to Zoom, Skype, Microsoft Teams

How to add green screen to Zoom, Skype, Microsoft Teams, Green screen will help you easily erase the background area when making video calls. Learn how to add a live green screen

Detailed instructions on how to use Skype to teach online

Detailed instructions on how to use Skype to teach online

The following article will guide teachers and students on how to install and use Skype for online teaching!

How to set a separate ringtone for calls from Skype on Android

How to set a separate ringtone for calls from Skype on Android

Good news for those who have the habit of setting their own ringtones for each person in the phone book, now it is also possible to set a ringtone for each caller in the Skype for Android app.

Fix Skype lost emoticons

Fix Skype lost emoticons

Losing emoticons on Skype is an error when chatting, users choose to use emoticons on Skype but they are not displayed.

How to use window split mode on Skype

How to use window split mode on Skype

Split View allows users to place their contact list in a window, and each conversation will open in a separate window.

How to add an administrator to a Skype chat group

How to add an administrator to a Skype chat group

Adding an admin to the Skype chat group is a good trick that many people who don't know about Skype for a long time.

Private chat guide on Skype

Private chat guide on Skype

Skype has launched a end-to-end encryption feature called Private Conversations, making conversations safer than ever. Previously, Facebook Messenger, Zalo and Viber also launched a self-destruct message feature to ensure privacy in the game.

How to block and unblock friends on Skype

How to block and unblock friends on Skype

Blocking your Skype friends is the simplest and most effective way to avoid being disturbed, especially when it's your spam, advertising or harassing accounts.

Fix error of not receiving messages in Group on Skype

Fix error of not receiving messages in Group on Skype

In this article WebTech360 will guide how to handle the error of not receiving messages in the chat group so that you can easily exchange and discuss with each other on Skype.

How to block spam messages on Viber

How to block spam messages on Viber

Blocking spam messages and also blocking people you don't want to be disturbed will keep you from being disturbed and annoyed whenever they contact.

Solving Microsoft Teams OneDrive Error File Sync

Solving Microsoft Teams OneDrive Error File Sync

Tired of Microsoft Teams OneDrive Error blocking file sync? Follow our step-by-step guide to solve Microsoft Teams "OneDrive Error" File Sync issues quickly. Proven fixes for smooth collaboration in Teams channels. Get your files syncing error-free today!

How to Fix Microsoft Teams Workflows and Power Automate Errors

How to Fix Microsoft Teams Workflows and Power Automate Errors

Tired of Microsoft Teams workflows and Power Automate errors halting your productivity? Get step-by-step solutions to common issues like authentication failures, timeouts, and flow errors. Fix them in minutes and automate effortlessly!

Troubleshooting Microsoft Teams Download Error on Macbook

Troubleshooting Microsoft Teams Download Error on Macbook

Facing Microsoft Teams "Download Error" on MacBook? Discover proven troubleshooting steps to resolve download failures quickly, from cache clears to reinstalls, and get back to smooth teamwork.

Troubleshooting Microsoft Teams Where is Teams Folder Error

Troubleshooting Microsoft Teams Where is Teams Folder Error

Tired of the frustrating Microsoft Teams "Where is Teams" Folder Error? Discover proven, step-by-step troubleshooting fixes to resolve it quickly and restore smooth teamwork. Latest methods included!

How to Fix Microsoft Teams JavaScript Error on Desktop App

How to Fix Microsoft Teams JavaScript Error on Desktop App

Frustrated by Microsoft Teams JavaScript Error on desktop app? Discover proven steps to fix it fast: clear cache, update, reset, and reinstall. Get back to seamless collaboration in minutes!

How to Fix Microsoft Teams Guest Login Error

How to Fix Microsoft Teams Guest Login Error

Struggling with Microsoft Teams "Guest Login" Error? Discover step-by-step fixes, from quick cache clears to admin settings, to resolve guest access issues fast and collaborate seamlessly. Updated with the latest tips!

How to Fix Microsoft Teams For PC Download Error

How to Fix Microsoft Teams For PC Download Error

Tired of the Microsoft Teams "For PC" download error blocking your work? Follow our proven, step-by-step guide to resolve it quickly and get Teams running smoothly on your PC today.

Solving Microsoft Teams Windows 7 Login Error

Solving Microsoft Teams Windows 7 Login Error

Struggling with Microsoft Teams "Windows 7" login error? Discover step-by-step fixes for this frustrating issue on Windows 10/11. Clear cache, edit registry, and more – get back to seamless collaboration today!

How to Fix Microsoft Teams Error Code 0x80070005 (2026 Guide)

How to Fix Microsoft Teams Error Code 0x80070005 (2026 Guide)

Tired of Microsoft Teams Error Code 0x80070005 blocking your meetings? Follow this 2026 guide with step-by-step fixes for access denied issues. Get Teams running smoothly in minutes!

How to Install the Microsoft Teams Add-in for Outlook 2026

How to Install the Microsoft Teams Add-in for Outlook 2026

Master the installation of the Microsoft Teams Add-in for Outlook 2026 effortlessly. Boost your productivity with seamless scheduling and meetings. Follow our proven, up-to-date steps for instant success!

How to Fix Microsoft Teams License Error 2026

How to Fix Microsoft Teams License Error 2026

Struggling with Microsoft Teams "License Error" 2026? Discover proven, step-by-step solutions to resolve it fast. Clear cache, check licenses, and get back to seamless collaboration—no IT help needed!

The Best Exercises for 50+

The Best Exercises for 50+

Whether youre in your 50s, 60s, or even 70s, its not too late to prioritize your health and put yourself first. Here are the best exercises for people 50 and older.

Solving Microsoft Teams Error Caa50024 on Windows 10/11

Solving Microsoft Teams Error Caa50024 on Windows 10/11

Struggling with Microsoft Teams Error Caa50024 on Windows 10/11? Follow our step-by-step fixes to resolve crashes and launch issues quickly. Latest proven solutions for seamless teamwork.

How to Fix Microsoft Teams Login Error AADSTS50011

How to Fix Microsoft Teams Login Error AADSTS50011

Stuck with Microsoft Teams login error AADSTS50011? Discover proven, step-by-step fixes to resolve the reply URL mismatch issue and log in seamlessly. No tech skills needed!

How to Fix Microsoft Teams Win 7 Compatibility Error

How to Fix Microsoft Teams Win 7 Compatibility Error

Tired of the frustrating Microsoft Teams "Win 7" Compatibility Error blocking your meetings? Get instant fixes with our step-by-step guide, including workarounds for older Windows versions. Resolve it now and stay connected!