Microsoft’s Skype is shutting down today, Monday, May 5, after 22 years of service.
Skype was introduced in August 2003 by a group of Estonian developers, Ahti Heinla, Priit Kasesalu, and Jaan Tallinn. It quickly gained popularity, first, because it was free, and second, because at the time, it was one of the few available options. Skype was mostly used for professional meetings, though it was also popular among people communicating with friends on a personal level. However, its primary use remained in business settings.
In Pakistan, Skype was a blessing for many freelancers using platforms like Upwork and Fiverr. It helped Pakistanis connect with clients from all over the world. Usually, freelancers found clients through online platforms and received detailed project briefs via Skype video or audio calls. This boosted productivity significantly. It would not be wrong to say that Skype played a major role in the growth of Pakistan’s freelance industry.
In 2025, Pakistani freelancers now have many alternatives to Skype.
Umar, a 28-year-old content writer based in Lahore, told Azaad English that he started content writing in 2011 at the age of 14. He used to get small gigs on Fiverr that year, and after gaining loyal clients, his main channel of communication was Skype, which he said played a key role in his content writing journey. He now leads a team of at least 13 writers working for international clients.
Social media reacts to Skype shutdown
Social media users are expressing mixed feelings about Skype permanently shutting down because of the nostalgia attached to it.
The existing Skype users will be transferred to Microsoft Teams. Moving to Teams means that you’ll be able to export your data, including photos and conversation history.
