Skype users must export data by Jan 2026 or lose access; Teams offers partial migration.

Microsoft is urging Skype users to save their messages and files by January 2026, as the app was retired in May 2025 after nearly 22 years. Users can export chat history, files, and contacts via the Skype export page using their Microsoft account, with data delivered in a .tar file—openable on Macs natively, but requiring third-party tools on Windows. Those who sign in to Microsoft Teams Free by January 2026 can transfer most chat and contact data automatically, though some content, including chats with Teams work or school accounts and Copilot or bot interactions, will not transfer. Microsoft is shifting focus to Teams as its primary communication platform.