Microsoft has announced that it is killing off its Skype for TV app this year, the app will no longer be supported from June 2016.
From June you will no longer be able to create a new account on Skype for TV or reset your password, the app may still continue to function on some Smart TVs.
The Evolution of Skype Usage
Since its inception in 2010, Skype for TV has provided a unique calling experience in the living room, partnering with several TV manufacturers to bring video calling to the big screen. This innovation allowed families and friends to connect in a more immersive way, leveraging the larger display and often superior audio systems of modern televisions. However, over the years, the way users interact with Skype has evolved significantly.
The majority of users have shifted towards mobile devices for their communication needs, even when they are at home. Smartphones and tablets offer the convenience of portability and the ability to multitask, which has made them the preferred choice for many. This shift in user behavior has prompted Microsoft to re-evaluate its strategy for Skype, leading to the decision to discontinue the Skype for TV app.
Focus on Mobile and Other Platforms
Microsoft’s decision to discontinue Skype for TV is part of a broader strategy to focus on platforms that align more closely with current user preferences. By prioritizing mobile devices, Microsoft aims to enhance the Skype experience where it is most frequently used. This includes improving the app’s functionality, user interface, and integration with other services on smartphones and tablets.
Moreover, Microsoft is also investing in other platforms such as desktop computers and web browsers, ensuring that Skype remains a versatile tool for communication across various devices. This approach allows Microsoft to allocate resources more efficiently, ensuring that they can deliver the best possible experience to their users.
Since 2010, Skype has delivered a great calling experience in the living room in partnership with several TV manufacturers. But over the years, users have changed the way they use Skype, with the majority accessing it from a mobile device – including when in the living room. We want to make sure we prioritize delivering the best possible experience to the platforms our users are asking for, which is why we’ve decided to focus our efforts in other areas while supporting key functionality on Skype for TV for as long as possible.
While the discontinuation of Skype for TV may be disappointing for some users, it is a necessary step for Microsoft to ensure that they can continue to innovate and improve the Skype experience on the platforms that matter most to their users.
Alternatives and Future Prospects
For those who have been using Skype for TV, there are several alternatives to consider. Many Smart TVs now come with built-in video calling apps or support for third-party apps that can be downloaded from app stores. Additionally, devices like the Amazon Echo Show or Google Nest Hub offer video calling capabilities with large screens, providing a similar experience to Skype for TV.
Looking ahead, Microsoft is likely to continue exploring new ways to integrate Skype into the evolving landscape of communication technology. This could include further enhancements to Skype’s mobile app, new features for desktop users, and potential integration with emerging technologies such as augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR).
You can find out more details about Skype for TV shutting down in June over at Microsoft at the link below.
Source Skype
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