Microsoft sees Skype for Business Online shutdown as opportunity for Teams

Microsoft Teams PC
Microsoft Teams PC (Image credit: Windows Central)

What you need to know

  • Microsoft outlined resources available to ease the transition from Skype for Business Online to Teams.
  • Skype for Business online will be retired on July 31, 2021.
  • Microsoft has training, guidance, and other tools to help make the switch.

Microsoft announced a year ago that it will retire Skype for Business Online. In that announcement, Microsoft stated that it felt Microsoft Teams was "at the point that we can confidently recommend it as an upgrade to all Skype for Business Online customers." The retirement of Skype for Business is set for July 31, 2021, meaning it's now one year away.

With an increased emphasis on working from home, Microsoft states that many Skype for Business Customers accelerated the move to Teams. To help companies transition from Skype for Business to Teams, Microsoft outlines several resources available in a techcommunity post.

The retirement date for Skype for Business Online is not new, but these resources will help companies make the switch to Microsoft Teams. Microsoft has instructor-led Teams training, Teams upgrade guidance, Teams upgrade planning workshops, and FastTrack and Partner support available. Microsoft links to all the tools you can utilize in its techcommunity post.

Sean Endicott
News Writer and apps editor

Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He's covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean's journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.