Microsoft users have until January to save Skype messages

Skype was officially “retired” by Microsoft back in May after nearly 22 years, having first launched in August 2003.

The tech giant said the decision to shut down the communications app was so it could “streamline our free consumer communications offerings so we can more easily adapt to customer needs”.

By retiring Skype, Microsoft said it enables them to focus on Teams.

As we say goodbye to Skype, we want to thank our incredible community. Over the years, you’ve connected with family, friends, and colleagues across the world.

This isn’t the end—it’s a new beginning. Join us on Microsoft Teams Free and continue making great memories. pic.twitter.com/9lDRE6rMVW

— Skype (@Skype) May 5, 2025

President of Collaborative Apps and Platforms at Microsoft, Jeff Teper, said: “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. ”

Skype users have just days to access messages before they are deleted

While Skype was officially shut down back in May, users have still had access to old messages. Until now.

Microsoft has warned Skype users that they have until January 2026 to save their messages before they are deleted.

Skype users have until January 2026 to save their messages before they are deleted. (Image: PA)

The Microsoft website reads: “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 January 2026.”

How to export messages from Skype

To export your messages and media from Skype:

1. Sign in to the ‘ Export page ‘ on Skype with your Microsoft account
2. Select the option to download your conversations, files, or both
3. Select ‘Submit request’, then click ‘Continue’ when prompted
4. A link to your files will appear when they are available, at which point click the ‘Download’ button

The downloaded messages and files are delivered in a .tar file.

Macs have built-in .tar support, however, those operating on Windows devices may need a third-party app to open.

You can also export your contacts from Skype via the ‘Exports’ or ‘Settings and preferences’ pages within your account.

Skype users can move to Microsoft Teams for free

Microsoft has also reminded Skype users that they can move over to Teams for free, with the newer app offering “many of the same core features and more”.

All you have to do is sign in to Microsoft Teams Free on any supported device using your Skype credentials, and your contacts and chats will automatically be transferred.

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There are, however, some data that won’t transfer over to Teams free, including:

• Chats between Skype users and Teams work or school accounts
• Skype to Skype for Business chat history
• 1:1 chat with self history
• Private conversations data 
• Copilot and bots content (not supported in Teams Free)
• Chat history

The syncing of your data from Skype to Teams Free should take less than a minute, according to the Microsoft website.