Microsoft Shifts Skype Strategy: Credit & Phone Number Sales Discontinued
Microsoft has quietly phased out Skype’s pay-as-you-go credit system and phone number purchases, steering users toward subscription-based plans instead. This strategic pivot marks a significant shift for the once-dominant VoIP platform, now prioritizing recurring revenue over one-time payments.
Key Changes to Skype’s Service Model
- Credit top-ups discontinued: Users can no longer add funds to their Skype accounts
- New phone number sales halted: Existing numbers remain active, but new purchases are unavailable
- Subscription push: Microsoft now promotes monthly regional and global calling plans
Microsoft confirmed the changes to TechCrunch after users reported issues adding credit. A company spokesperson stated they “continuously evaluate product strategy based on customer usage and needs.”
Image Credits: Screenshot / TechCrunch
The Evolution of a VoIP Pioneer
Founded in 2003, Skype revolutionized digital communication by:
- Introducing free internet-based voice calls
- Pioneering video calling technology (2006)
- Expanding to include messaging and file sharing
After multiple ownership changes—including eBay’s \(4.1 billion acquisition in 2005 and Microsoft's \)8.5 billion purchase in 2011—Skype now serves as a niche product within Microsoft’s expansive cloud ecosystem.
Current Skype Usage and Market Position
While Microsoft hasn’t released recent official figures:
- Last reported 36 million daily active users (2023)
- Pandemic peak of 40 million daily users (March 2020)
- Faces stiff competition from WhatsApp, Zoom, and Microsoft’s own Teams
Interestingly, Skype’s web interface still displays credit purchase options despite the functionality being disabled—an inconsistency Microsoft acknowledges and is working to resolve.
What This Means for Users
Existing Skype users should note:
- Current balances remain usable (with 180-day activity requirement)
- Active phone numbers continue functioning
- Subscription plans now represent the only option for new calling services
This transition reflects broader industry trends toward subscription models and Microsoft’s strategic focus on recurring revenue streams. While Skype maintains a loyal user base, these changes signal its diminishing role as a standalone product in Microsoft’s portfolio.
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