In a surprising move, Microsoft has made a big change by stopping the sale of Skype Numbers and Credits, leaving users with fewer options for making occasional calls.
This move has raised concerns for many who used these services for affordable international calls. Here’s what you need to know about these changes and what they mean for Skype users.
What’s Happening?
Skype Numbers allowed users to get a phone number in any location, making it easier to receive calls. Skype Credits were used for making calls to landlines and mobile phones, offering affordable rates. However, both services are no longer available for purchase.
This change was first noticed when a community member reported being unable to buy Skype Credits. Initially thought to be a regional issue, it turned out that the problem affected users worldwide. Now, the Skype Number page shows that the service is gone, and the Credits page encourages users to switch to monthly subscription plans or use free Skype-to-Skype calls.
Why the Change?
Microsoft hasn’t given a clear explanation, but it’s likely that the company is making this shift to encourage users to sign up for subscription plans. These plans provide a steady income for Microsoft, unlike the one-time payments from Skype Credits.
For regular users, subscriptions might be a better deal. However, for people who only need to make occasional calls, this change could be more expensive, especially since Skype Credits had a 180-day expiration and allowed users to pay only for what they used.
How Does This Affect Users?
The removal of Skype Numbers and Credits is a big change for those who only made occasional calls or used Skype Numbers for a local presence in other countries. Without Skype Credits, users are now forced to sign up for a monthly plan, which might not be ideal for those who don’t need a continuous service.
This change could be especially tough for users in regions with lower living costs, where monthly subscriptions could feel like a significant price increase.
What’s Next for Skype?
Microsoft hasn’t said if Skype Numbers will return, but it seems unlikely. For now, users will need to switch to subscription plans if they want to make calls to landlines or mobile phones. Skype-to-Skype calls remain free, but the days of pay-as-you-go credits are over.
While this shift may benefit heavy users, it’s clear that Skype is pushing for a more streamlined and predictable service. For those who used the older system, this change might feel like a step backward, but for Microsoft, it could be a move toward better business sustainability.