Farewell, Skype: Microsoft Calls Time on the Iconic App

by News Editor

May 5, 2025

Everything good comes to an end. As of May 5, Microsoft has ended support for Skype, nearly 15 years after acquiring the European VoIP provider from eBay for $8.5 billion.

Key Facts

Jeff Teper, President of Collaborative Apps and Platforms at Microsoft, announced the decision to cease the service, aiming to optimize user communication products.
Once a pioneering platform for HD voice and video calls, Skype was an early leader in online communication.
Skype, initially developed by Skype Technologies, was acquired by eBay in 2005.
Despite surpassing 400 million users in 2008, Skype began losing its competitive edge.
In 2011, Microsoft acquired Skype for $8.5 billion, paving the way for the app’s current scenario.
Ending support for Skype has sparked nostalgia among its extensive user base.

What You Should Know and Microsoft’s Reason

Skype was once a premier VoIP service for global connections, allowing both free and paid communication. As Microsoft shifts focus to Microsoft Teams, Skype’s user experience and features will be incorporated into this modern hub.

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Microsoft Teams, which has seen significant user growth, will now carry forward Skype’s legacy features, offering enhanced capabilities.

What Happens to Your Skype Account?

All Skype contacts and chats will seamlessly migrate to the free version of Microsoft Teams. Active subscriptions and credits remain usable through Skype Dial Pad, accessible via the web or Teams.

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EU Tightens Steel Imports As Overcapacity Hits 721M Tonnes

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

April 14, 2026

Robust Regulatory Framework

Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU, together with the European Parliament, reached a provisional agreement on measures addressing global steel overcapacity. The regulation targets trade diversion and excess supply while maintaining compliance with international trade rules. The framework also aims to preserve operational flexibility for downstream industries.

Safeguarding Employment And Environmental Commitments

Global steel overcapacity is projected to reach 721 million tonnes by 2027, compared with EU annual consumption levels. The measures are linked to the protection of around 2.5 million jobs. Policy direction also aligns with EU decarbonisation targets within the industrial sector.

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Enhanced Trade Controls And Supply Chain Traceability

The regulation introduces tariff-free quotas of 18.3 million tonnes annually. Imports exceeding thresholds will be subject to a 50% duty. Measures cover 30 steel product categories and will replace current safeguards expiring on June 30, 2026. A “melt and pour” requirement is included to improve supply chain traceability.

Diversifying Import Sources And Reducing Dependencies

Rules apply to imports from all countries, excluding European Economic Area members, which remain subject to traceability requirements. The framework also reduces reliance on specific external suppliers, including Russia. Michael Damianos, Energy Minister of Cyprus, said the steel sector remains important for economic activity and energy transition. Bernd Lange, Chair of the European Parliament’s INTA Committee, said the measures address trade practices and market conditions.

Looking Ahead

The agreement introduces a revised tariff-rate quota system with import quotas reduced by approximately 47% compared with 2024. Limited carry-over flexibility will apply in the first year. The European Commission will review the measures in subsequent years. Formal adoption by the European Parliament and the Council is expected before implementation on July 1, 2026.

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