What are the best Skype alternatives in 2025?
Microsoft's decision to shut down Skype in May marks the end of an era for one of the world's most iconic communication platforms. With millions of users relying on Skype for international calling, chatting, and video conferencing, the announcement has left many searching for reliable Skype alternatives.
The shift to close Skype is part of the company’s broader strategy to focus on Microsoft Teams, aiming to streamline its communication services under one platform. However, if you primarily use Skype for international calls, Teams might not be the ideal replacement. In this article, we’ll go over all the details about the shutdown and alternatives to Skype.
Skype discontinuation FAQ
Here’s everything you need to know to navigate the transition smoothly as you find alternatives to Skype.
Skype accounts will no longer be active after May 5, 2025.1 You can use your Skype account credentials to sign into Teams, but the classic Skype interface and functionalities will no longer be available.
Your chats and contacts will automatically transfer when you log into Microsoft Teams with your Skype credentials. Microsoft is gradually rolling out this feature, starting with Skype and Teams Insider program users.
If you choose not to transition to Teams, you can still export your Skype data, including chats, contacts, and call history, using Skype's data export tool.
Also, note that certain data will not migrate 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 conversation data
- Copilot and bots content
Your Skype credits and active subscriptions will remain valid until May 5, 2025. However, they won’t transfer to Microsoft Teams Free or any other Microsoft service.
If you have unused Skype credits, using them before the shutdown is best because refunds will not be automatically issued. It’s also not clear whether Microsoft will give refunds at all.
Active subscriptions will continue to work until the shutdown date but will not renew after that. If you need an alternative for international calling, consider switching to another service before the shutdown.
No, once Skype shuts down, its phone calling feature will be discontinued. You must use alternative services like BOSS Revolution to make international calls.
Yes! Use BOSS Revolution if you need an easy and affordable alternative for international calls. Unlike a business collaboration tool like Teams, BOSS Revolution is focused on making international calling accessible, reliable, and affordable.
Skype alternative for mobile international calls
Consider BOSS Revolution if you want a reliable and affordable alternative to Skype for international mobile calls.
Since 2009, BOSS Revolution has kept people around the world connected, earning the trust of over two million customers for its reliable service. With the BOSS Revolution Calling App, you can call friends, family, or colleagues wherever they are.
App-to-app calls and texts are free (both parties must have the app), and you can reach anyone outside the platform at highly competitive international rates with no hidden fees.
Beyond cheap international calls, you can also top up anyone’s phone using the mobile app or website. In other words, you can add airtime credits to the cell phones of family and friends. BOSS Revolution lets you recharge mobile phones in over 102 countries.
There are also plenty of special offers and discounts throughout the year. For example:
- New users get a $2 Free Calling Credit.
- Invite friends to join, and you’ll both enjoy calling bonuses through the Refer a Friend Program. You earn a $10 calling bonus for each referral, and your referred friend receives a $2 bonus upon signing up.
- The BOSS Club Loyalty Program provides exclusive discounts and promotions when you join. Members receive early notifications of upcoming deals via SMS. To enroll, text "JOIN" to 55350.
- Get 20% off when you recharge a mobile phone with $10 or more from the BOSS Revolution website. Use promo code TOPUPWEB at checkout. This offer is valid for single use on the website.
Additionally, BOSS Revolution is more than just a calling app. You can also send international money transfers securely through the app or website, providing extra convenience.
Skype vs. BOSS Revolution (mobile international calls)
| Feature | Skype | BOSS Revolution |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | Global | Global with localized services |
| Free app-to-app calls | Yes | Yes |
| Free messaging | Yes | Yes |
| International call rates | Varies, not always competitive | Competitive, affordable rates |
| Mobile top-up service | No | Yes |
| Airtime & data transfers | No | Yes |
| Flexible payment options | Yes | Yes – Pay-as-you-go or discounted monthly plans |
| Referral program | No | Yes – Earn credit by inviting friends |
| Loyalty program | No | Yes – BOSS Club |
| Customer support | Limited | Dedicated support through multiple channels |
| Promotions & discounts | Limited | Frequent promotions and discounts |
BOSS Revolution offers a broader suite of services for affordable and flexible international communication.
Skype alternative to call landlines internationally
BOSS Revolution is an excellent Skype number alternative. While Skype requires users to purchase Skype Credits or a subscription to call landlines, BOSS Revolution offers lower rates with better flexibility. You can connect with loved ones and businesses worldwide without complicated pricing structures.
Plus, BOSS Revolution doesn’t rely entirely on an internet connection like Skype. You can make international calls using local access numbers, which means calls are possible without an internet connection.
Here’s how to call landlines internationally with BOSS Revolution.
1. Get the App & Sign Up: Download the BOSS Revolution Calling App and create an account. Or sign up and download the app from the website.
2. Add Credit to Your Account: To start making calls, load funds through the app, website, or a participating local retailer.
3. Dial the International Number Correctly:
- For direct calls through the app, simply enter the country code followed by the landline number.
- If you’re calling from a mobile or landline, you’ll need a BOSS Revolution local access number (more on this shortly). Dial your nearest access number and enter the full international number (exit code + country code + area code + local number). This method can save money and ensure a stable, high-quality connection. Here are the access numbers for BOSS Revolution:
- English: 716-271-BOSS (2677)
- Spanish: 716-770-BOSS (2677)
- Creole: 716-328-1927
- French: 716-328-9007
- Arabic: 716-328-9027
- Amharic: 716-328-9057
Skype vs. BOSS Revolution (calling landlines internationally)
| Feature | Skype | BOSS Revolution |
|---|---|---|
| Calls to landlines | Requires Skype Credit or subscription | Yes – Pay-as-you-go or discounted monthly plans |
| Internet required | Yes | No, can use local access numbers |
| Call quality | Can suffer from lag and drops | Clearer and more reliable |
| Hidden fees | May apply to subscriptions | No hidden fees |
| Customer support | Limited | Dedicated support through multiple channels |
Best alternative to Skype for business
With Microsoft discontinuing Skype, many users are also searching for Skype alternatives for PC. While Microsoft Teams is an option, it’s designed more for business collaboration than personal or international calling. If you’re wondering what to use instead of Skype, there are several excellent alternatives for video conferencing, team meetings, and international calls.
Here are the best Skype alternatives computers and/or alternatives to Skype for international landline calls.
Zoom
Zoom has become the go-to choice for businesses and professionals looking for a Skype alternative for PC that supports high-quality virtual meetings. It allows up to 1,000 participants in a single session, making it ideal for webinars, large-scale meetings, and team collaboration.
It includes essential tools, such as screen sharing, breakout rooms, and virtual backgrounds, to enhance productivity for remote teams. It also integrates with Microsoft Outlook, Slack, and Google Workspace.
Google Meet
If you use Google Workspace, Google Meet is a natural alternative to Skype for international landline calls and video meetings. It offers free video calls for up to 100 participants with a time limit of one hour. The direct integration with Gmail and Google Calendar makes scheduling effortless. And the clean and user-friendly interface simplifies the video conferencing experience.
Webex by Cisco
Cisco Webex is a powerful Skype alternative for businesses that require enterprise-level security and advanced collaboration tools. It offers AI-driven features like noise removal and real-time translations, making international communication smoother.
Webex is particularly useful for companies in regulated industries that require advanced security measures for sensitive meetings. It delivers high-definition video and audio and integrates well with enterprise platforms like Microsoft Teams and Salesforce.
Conclusion
As Skype gets closer to shutting down on May 5, 2025, many of its users are naturally looking for a replacement that matches—or even exceeds—Skype’s international calling capabilities. While Microsoft Teams may be the designated successor, it doesn’t offer the affordability and user-friendly features many relied on Skype to provide.
BOSS Revolution is the best Skype alternative if you prioritize cost-effective, reliable international calls. The platform's fees are straightforward and pay-as-you-go. It offers free app-to-app calls and international calling, and you can add credit or top up your friends and family’s phones whenever needed. It even supports international money transfers.
BOSS Revolution is designed to simplify global communication needs.
Sources: all third party information obtained from applicable website as of March 18, 2025
- https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/skype/skype-is-retiring-in-may-2025-what-you-need-to-know-2a7d2501-427f-485e-8be0-2068a9f90472
This article is provided for general information purposes only and is not intended to address every aspect of the matters discussed herein. The information in this article is not intended as specific personal advice. The information in this article does not constitute legal, tax, regulatory or other professional advice from IDT Payment Services, Inc. and its affiliates (collectively, “IDT”), and should not be taken or used as such by any individual. IDT makes no representation, warranty or guaranty, whether express or implied, that the content in this article is current, accurate, or complete. You should obtain professional or other substantive advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the information in this article.
