Microsoft Discontinues Skype Number Service; Users Can No Longer Purchase Credits
The Skype Number service offered an excellent opportunity for users to acquire a phone number in various locations, handle incoming calls, and even redirect those calls to different numbers. Unfortunately, this service is currently unavailable. Moreover, users can no longer buy new Skype Credits, as indicated by an “unavailable”notice on the official site.
Windows Latest highlighted this issue in a community forum where a user faced difficulties in purchasing credits. Seeking assistance, the individual speculated that the problem may relate to their geographical location.
This user initially registered for Skype in Russia over ten years ago, but when attempting to buy credits in Brazil, they encountered barriers. Following Microsoft’s suspension of Skype services and credit purchases in Russia due to international sanctions, a moderator recommended either changing the billing address or setting up a new account.
However, the situation appears to be more intricate than merely a matter of regional restrictions. The official page for acquiring a Skype Number now displays a message stating, “Skype Number is no longer available.” Users are instead encouraged to opt for monthly subscription plans rather than credits and to make Skype-to-Skype calls for free.
Microsoft has confirmed these Skype adjustments in a statement to Windows Latest.
Besides the brief acknowledgment regarding Skype Number, Microsoft has not provided additional details. The notice on the Skype Credits page reads, “Skype Credit is no longer available.”
Will the Skype Number return?
It seems unlikely that the Skype Number feature will make a comeback. The decision to discontinue such a widely used service likely stemmed from significant underlying reasons. This shift towards pushing users towards monthly subscriptions, as opposed to keeping credits available, is regrettable.
You might wonder about the distinction between the two options. Skype Credits expire after 180 days, making them suitable for those who only need to make occasional calls rather than ongoing service. On the other hand, subscription plans work well for users needing to communicate for extended periods. However, the absence of an option to select between credits and subscriptions means users are now restricted to purchasing monthly or larger plans, which could become costly based on the user’s region.
We anticipate that Microsoft will provide further clarification on the rationale behind the discontinuation of these popular Skype features. In the meantime, users are encouraged to take advantage of free app calls.
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