Microsoft has announced that it will shut down Skype, the popular video conferencing platform, on May 5th. The decision marks the end of an era for a service that revolutionized internet communication and played a significant role in connecting people across the globe.

First released in 2003, Skype allowed users to make phone and video calls over the internet, providing a convenient and trustworthy way to stay in touch with friends, family, and colleagues. The app was acquired by Microsoft in 2011, but despite its initial popularity, it has been largely neglected and ignored in recent years.

The Verge's staff shared their personal experiences with Skype, highlighting its importance in their lives. For Victoria Song, senior reviewer, Skype was a lifeline during her time living in Japan, allowing her to stay connected with friends and family back home. Todd Haselton, deputy editor, remembered using Skype to make long-distance calls to his girlfriend, now wife, who was living in Italy. Jess Weatherbed, news writer, cherished Skype as a reliable means of making overseas calls for work.

Skype was also instrumental in the production of podcasts at The Verge, with Andru Marino, senior producer, using the platform to connect with remote guests. However, with the rise of Zoom and other video conferencing apps, Skype's popularity began to wane. As Barbara Krasnoff, reviews editor, noted, Skype's lack of development and support led to its decline, making it a relic of the past.

The news of Skype's discontinuation has sparked nostalgia among those who used the platform. Adi Robertson, senior editor, tech and policy, recalled the distinctive Skype ringtone, which became synonymous with the brand. Jay Peters, news editor, simply wrote "DOO DEE DOO — DEE DOO DEE," evoking the iconic sound.

The shutdown of Skype serves as a reminder of the rapidly evolving technology landscape. As new platforms and services emerge, older ones are often left behind. Microsoft's decision to discontinue Skype may be seen as a pragmatic move, but it also marks the end of an era for a service that played a significant role in shaping the way we communicate online.

Current Skype users will be encouraged to move to Teams or export their data before the shutdown. While Skype may be gone, its legacy will live on in the memories of those who used it, and its impact on the world of internet communication will not be forgotten.