Technology

Microsoft sets May end date for Skype after 14-year run

Published

3 months ago

March 28, 2025

Microsoft sets May end date for Skype after 14-year run

Before there was Zoom, Skype was the dominant internet-based phone and video service for the masses. After 22 years of service (14 years under Microsoft), customers were shocked to learn that Microsoft has decided to discontinue Skype in May 2025.

That’s why “Pat’s” email prompted us to explore alternatives to Skype.

“Hello, apparently Microsoft is getting rid of Skype. We use Skype every weekend to communicate with our family in Ireland. Do you have recommendations for an alternative? Thanks.” — Pat, Commerce Township, Michigan

Though a bit unnerving for long-time Skype users, Microsoft is actually discontinuing Skype because of steep competition for the same type of service from the likes of Zoom and WhatsApp. While the change may be unwelcome, there are many options to choose from once Skype bows out.

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The company states on its website that “Your Skype data will be available until January 2026 for you to export or delete. If you log in to Microsoft Teams Free by then, your Skype call and chat history will be available to you. If you take no action, your Skype data will be deleted in January 2026.”

Below are the top alternatives to Skype, which will help you stay connected with people you care about personally and professionally, as well as how to export your contacts and other vital information off Skype.

A woman using Skype on a laptop (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Top 6 Skype alternatives

While change can be challenging, it doesn’t have to be difficult with the following Skype alternatives listed below.

Microsoft Teams

With Microsoft discontinuing Skype to invest its attention and resources in Microsoft Teams, it is an easy transition from Skype. Microsoft Teams will allow you to sign in with your existing Skype credentials, making the transition easier. There is a free version of Microsoft Teams that Microsoft is encouraging its Skype users to utilize. Like Skype, it includes video calls and messaging. The benefit of signing up for Microsoft Teams is that your Skype contacts and message history will be automatically migrated to Microsoft Teams.

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A man using Skype on his 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, giving your communication an added layer of protection. It also allows you to message with other users. Additionally, because it is used worldwide, WhatsApp is a great international communication tool.

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Google Meet

If you already use Google services such as Gmail and Google Calendar, Google Meet can be a seamless alternative to Skype. Google Meet is a free video-conferencing service that integrates Gmail and Google Calendar. With free plans available, you can include up to 100 participants on a video call.

Zoom

Zoom has become a regular fixture in the modern professional world. With a user-friendly interface and rich features, Zoom has been the top choice for video calls. Zoom offers free plans that allow for 40-minute video calls per call for up to 100 participants.

Signal

For those with concerns about privacy, Signal is a great alternative to Skype. It boasts end-to-end encryption on messages and video calls, which keeps your communications secure. Signal is an open-source service that allows users to send instant messages as well as voice and video calls.

Discord

While well-known among gamers, Discord has become a versatile communication tool. With free voice channels, screen sharing and low-latency audio (better audio quality), it has begun to stand out as a good group call option.

How to export contacts and messages from Skype

Though Microsoft will give you until January 2026 to export or delete your Skype contacts, chat and file history, it is best to log in and start the process now, as it can take a while for the company to fulfill your request.

To export contacts, follow these steps:

On your web browser, go to https://secure.skype.com/ and log into your Skype account using your username and password
On the main page, under Account detail, go to Setting and preferences
Click Export contacts
A dialog box will appear, then select where you want to save the file and click Save

Steps to export Skype contacts (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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To export conversations and files, follow these steps:

On your web browser, go to https://secure.skype.com/ and log into your Skype account using your username and password
On the main page, under Account detail, go to Setting and preferences
Click Export files and chat history
Under “Request a copy of your files and chat history,” check the boxes you want to download and click Submit request
Once the request has been processed, it will show up at the very top of the same page
To save, click Download

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Steps to export Skype conversations and files (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

How to export your Skype data and import it into other video platforms

Before Skype officially shuts down May 27, 2025, it’s a smart move to save your data and prepare for a transition to another platform. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Export your Skype data

You can request a full download of your Skype chat history, call logs and other personal data.

Go to the Skype Export page: https://go.skype.com/export
Sign in with your Skype (Microsoft) account.
Choose what you’d like to download:Conversations: Chat logs, SMS and call recordsFiles: Photos, videos and documents shared via Skype
Conversations: Chat logs, SMS and call records
Files: Photos, videos and documents shared via Skype
Click Submit Request and wait for an email or download link to appear (may take hours or a few days depending on the volume).
Download the .ZIP file when ready and extract the contents to your device.

The exported messages are typically in a .tar or .json format, which can be opened with apps like Notepad, Excel or dedicated viewers.

Step 2: Import your info to a new platform

While Skype doesn’t offer a direct import tool for other platforms, here are a few ways to carry your info over:

Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, Slack or WhatsApp:

Contacts: You can manually add contacts from your Skype export by copying their email addresses or phone numbers.
Chat History: Most platforms won’t allow direct import, but you can:Save your Skype conversations as PDF or text files for reference.Upload important conversations to cloud services like Google Drive, Dropbox or OneDrive to keep them searchable and accessible.
Save your Skype conversations as PDF or text files for reference.
Upload important conversations to cloud services like Google Drive, Dropbox or OneDrive to keep them searchable and accessible.

Using Skype Data on Microsoft Teams:

Since Teams is Microsoft’s recommended replacement for Skype, it’s the most seamless switch.
If your account is tied to Microsoft 365, your contacts may already sync to Teams.
Chat history doesn’t automatically migrate, but you can reference exported chats when setting up new Teams channels or chats.

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Kurt’s key takeaways

While Skype’s end on May 5, 2025, is sobering, the time to transition to an alternative platform is imperative so you can get set up and adjusted to continue communicating with others professionally and personally. Though the friendly and familiar sky-blue interface will be missed, there are several options that fill those big empty shoes that Skype will leave. Whether you prefer the ease of being able to migrate contacts and messages from Skype directly to Microsoft Teams or prefer the security of Signal, there is a bounty of options to keep you connected to loved ones across the globe.

Are you a Skype user? Are you planning on switching to one of the top Skype alternatives? Why or why not? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

Technology

Apple’s latest AirPods are already on sale for $99 before Prime Day

Published

3 hours ago

July 7, 2025

Press Room

Apple’s latest AirPods are already on sale for before Prime Day

Amazon Prime Day kicks off tomorrow, July 8th, but you don’t have to wait until then to pick up Apple’s latest pair of AirPods at a discount. Right now, the AirPods 4 are available for around $99 ($30 off) at Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart, while the AirPods 4 with noise cancellation are going for around $149 ($30 off) at Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart. That’s within $10 of the lowest price we’ve seen on the ANC model and matches the lowest price to date on the base pair.

Both versions of Apple’s current-gen earbuds feature shorter stems and larger buds than previous models, allowing them to accommodate a broader range of ear shapes. The open-style earbuds use a hard plastic body that doesn’t create a tight seal inside your ear, which means they sacrifice some bass response compared to gummy-tipped earbuds. Hardshell earbuds won’t create pressure in your ear, though, which can feel uncomfortable after listening to music for a few hours.

Overall, the fourth-gen AirPods sound better than previous models due to a custom amplifier and new acoustic architecture. Audio quality is somewhat subjective and largely depends on how the music was recorded, mixed, and mastered; however, former Verge staffer Chris Welch noted in his review that he was pleased with the sound of Apple’s latest pair of wireless earbuds. If you’re upgrading from an older pair, you’ll notice a difference.

The AirPods 4 run on Apple’s H2 chip, which is required for Voice Isolation, a feature that reduces background noise and amplifies the volume of your voice during calls. If you’re using an iPhone, you can say “Hey Siri” to evoke Apple’s smart assistant to place calls, hear and return messages, and play music. You can also locate the earbuds using the Find My app on Apple devices if they’re misplaced.

The entry-level model can last up to five hours on a single charge and can be fully charged five times using the included USB-C charging case (the ANC model also offers wireless charging). Both pairs of earbuds are also IP54-rated for dust, sweat, and water resistance, ensuring you can wear them safely during workouts. Needless to say, the AirPods 4 are excellent earbuds at their current price, whether you opt for the model with active noise cancellation or not.

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Technology

How micro-robots may soon treat your sinus infections

Published

4 hours ago

July 7, 2025

Press Room

How micro-robots may soon treat your sinus infections

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A breakthrough in medical technology could soon change how sinus infections are treated. Scientists have created micro-robots for sinus infection treatment that can enter the nasal cavity, eliminate bacteria directly at the source, and exit without harming surrounding tissue. This drug-free, targeted approach may reduce our dependence on antibiotics.

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A woman with a sinus infection. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

What are micro-robots for sinus infection treatment?

These microscopic robots are smaller than a speck of dust. They are made of magnetic particles enhanced with copper atoms. Doctors insert them through a narrow duct in the nostril. Once inside, the micro-robots are guided by magnetic fields to reach the infected area.

At that point, a fiber optic light heats the particles and triggers a chemical reaction. This reaction breaks through thick mucus and destroys harmful bacteria at the infection site. As a result, treatment becomes faster, more precise, and far less invasive.

This latest advancement comes from a collaboration of researchers at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, along with universities in Guangxi, Shenzhen, Jiangsu, Yangzhou, and Macau. Their work, published in “Science Robotics,” has helped move micro-robotic medical technology closer to real-world applications.

Why use micro-robots instead of antibiotics?

Traditional antibiotics circulate throughout the entire body. In contrast, micro-robots target only the infected area. This reduces side effects and lowers the risk of antibiotic resistance. Furthermore, patients may recover faster because the treatment goes straight to the source.

A woman with a sinus infection. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Are micro-robots safe?

So far, animal trials have shown promising results. Micro-robots successfully cleared infections in pig sinuses and live rabbits, without causing tissue damage. However, scientists still need to ensure that every robot exits the body after treatment. Leftover particles could pose long-term risks.

In addition, public acceptance remains a challenge. The idea of tiny machines inside the body makes some people uncomfortable. Nevertheless, experts believe those fears will fade over time.

What other uses are possible?

Researchers are already exploring how micro-robots could treat infections in the bladder, stomach, intestines, and bloodstream. Several teams around the world are working to make the technology more advanced and adaptable for deep internal use. If successful, these innovations could revolutionize the way we fight bacteria in the human body.

A doctor examining a woman with a sinus infection. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Kurt’s key takeaways

The rise of micro-robots for sinus infection treatment marks a major shift in medical care. By offering precise, non-invasive therapy without antibiotics, this method could redefine how infections are treated. With continued research and testing, these tiny tools may soon become powerful allies in modern medicine.

Would you let microscopic robots crawl through your sinuses if it meant never needing antibiotics again? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

Technology

Cyberpunk Edgerunners 2 will be even sadder and bloodier

Published

3 days ago

July 5, 2025

Press Room

Cyberpunk Edgerunners 2 will be even sadder and bloodier

The new season will be directed by Kai Ikarashi, who also directed episode six in the first season, “Girl on Fire.” There’s no word yet on when Cyberpunk: Edgerunners 2 will premiere, but they did show off this new poster artwork. A trailer will be shown later tonight during a panel at 8:30PM PT for the animation studio, Trigger.

Showrunner and writer Bartosz Sztybor said during Friday’s panel that for season one, “I just wanted to make the whole world sad… when people are sad, I’m a bit happy,” and that this new 10-episode season will be “…of course, sadder, but it will be also darker, more bloody, and more raw.”

A brief summary of the follow-up series tells fans what to expect following the end of David’s story in season one:

Cyberpunk: Edgerunners 2 presents a new standalone 10-episode story from the world of Cyberpunk 2077— a raw chronicle of redemption and revenge. In a city that thrives in the spotlight of violence, one question remains: when the world is blinded by spectacle, what extremes do you have to go to make your story matter?