Skype has been a popular communication tool for individuals and businesses for years, enabling users to make voice and video calls, send instant messages, and share files. Over time, users accumulate valuable data, including chat histories, call logs, contacts, and shared media. Whether you’re switching to a new device, archiving important conversations, or transitioning to a different platform, exporting Skype data ensures that your information remains accessible and secure.
Exporting Skype data involves a few straightforward steps. Here’s a guide on how to do it:
Steps to Export Skype Data
- Access the Export Page:
Go to https://secure.skype.com/en/data-export or https://go.skype.com/export and sign in with your Microsoft account.
- Select Data to Export:
Once logged in, you will see options to export Conversations and Files. Check the boxes next to these options depending on what you want to export.
- Submit the Request:
Click Submit request to initiate the export process. You will be prompted to click Continue.
- Wait for the Export:
The export status will initially show as Pending. You need to check back periodically to see when it’s ready for download.
- Download the Export:
Once the export is ready, a Download button will appear. Click this to download your data as a .tar file.
- Extract the Files:
Use an archiver like 7-Zip to extract the .tar file. This will give you access to your chat history in a messages.json file.
- View the Export:
To view your chat history, you can use Skype’s official parser or an alternative like ArtemVeremienko’s fork from GitHub.
Viewing Your Export
Using Skype’s Official Parser
- Download the Skype parser from the export page.
- Extract the files.
- Open the index.html file in a browser.
- Click Choose File and select the messages.json file.
- Press Load to view your conversations.
Using ArtemVeremienko’s Fork
- Go to ArtemVeremienko’s GitHub page.
- Download the latest skype-parser.zip.
- Extract the files.
- Open the index.html file in a browser.
- Follow the same steps as with the official parser.
This method allows you to export and view your Skype chat history without needing to use the Skype app itself.
Alternatives to Skype
With Skype shutting down, users are looking for alternatives to continue their video calls and messaging. Here are some of the top alternatives for different needs:
Alternatives for Personal Use
- Google meet: Google Meet is a video conferencing service developed by Google, designed for secure and high-quality virtual meetings. It allows users to host or join meetings with features like screen sharing, real-time captions, and integration with Google Workspace apps like Gmail and Calendar.
- Zoom: Ideal for group video calls, easy to use, and supports both personal and business use.
- WhatsApp: Best for one-on-one calls and cost-effective global communication.
- Viber: Offers free messaging and calls, with options to buy credits for international calls.
- Signal: Provides end-to-end encrypted video calls, suitable for privacy-conscious users.
Alternatives for Business Use
- Microsoft Teams: A natural successor to Skype, offering built-in chat, file-sharing, and integration with Microsoft Office.
- CloudTalk: Stands out for small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) looking to scale, with AI-driven call distribution and international number coverage.
- JustCall: Offers a business phone system with call tracking, CRM integrations, and AI-powered insights.
- Slack: Excellent for team collaboration with messaging, voice, and video calls, along with extensive integrations.
Open-Source Alternatives
- Jami: A decentralized communication platform supporting voice, video, and messaging.
- Element: Offers decentralized and secure communication using the Matrix protocol, with end-to-end encryption.
- Jitsi Meet: A popular open-source video conferencing tool with features like screen sharing and password-protected rooms.
These alternatives cater to different needs, whether it’s personal, business, or open-source solutions.
Microsoft is discontinuing Skype from May 5, 2025.
