New Delhi, May 6 -- Microsoft has finally pulled the plug on Skype, its once-revolutionary internet calling platform, leaving millions of global users scrambling for alternatives to stay connected.

The shutdown, which took effect on 5 May, marks the end of an era for one of the earliest and most recognisable names in online communication. Launched in 2003 and acquired by Microsoft in 2011, Skype enabled affordable international calling, video chats, and instant messaging long before the rise of Zoom, WhatsApp, and Teams.

Microsoft announced in February that Skype's services would be folded into Microsoft Teams, the company's business-focused communication platform. Users can sign into Teams using their Skype credentials, and are offered...