Apr 27, Kathmandu- Skype, which became a staple of long-distance communication in the early 2010s, is now going away forever. Microsoft announced that May 5th, a week from now, will be the last day for Skype and it will be shut down forever. All of its data will be merged into the free version of Microsoft Teams.

The platform, which Microsoft acquired for $8.5 billion in 2011, has since faded into obscurity. By 2014, Skype had become almost irrelevant with the development of integrated apps like FaceTime. Since 2015, many users have stopped using Skype.

Logging into Skype now only brings up spammy crypto chats and phishing links. The news of Skype shutting down has some who were connected to the platform sharing their emotional memories. Skype was a way to connect with distant friends and new people back then. Whether it was to hear stories from college friends or to keep a love relationship alive, Skype played an important role.

This platform encapsulated emotions and presented real life in a different way. Remember, the recently released film ‘Past Lives’ also depicted long-distance relationships through Skype, and the special Skype tune played in the film reminded many of the old days.

Now, there are many options available to maintain long-distance relationships like Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, FaceTime, where you can chat, make video calls, and watch other activities from one place. The quality of the video has also improved a lot. But the emotions associated with Skype and the experience of using the technology of that time will remain special for some. The next week will be the last for Skype and will soon become a part of digital history.