Microsoft Retiring Older Versions of Skype for Mac - MacRumors
Skip to Content

Microsoft Retiring Older Versions of Skype for Mac

by

skypelogo.jpg Microsoft announced today via Computerworld) that it will be dropping support for older versions of Skype on Mac and Windows over the next few months to make way for newer editions.

Specifically, Skype for Mac 6.14 and below will be retired in the near future, as Microsoft noted that users will no longer be able to sign into the service until they upgrade to the latest version of Skype. Skype for Mac 6.14 was originally released in February, with Skype for Mac 6.18 being the most recent release.

In April, Skype made group video calling free for Mac, PC and Xbox One users, and also launched a redesigned iPhone app earlier this month that featured a streamlined design and improved performance.

Skype for Mac can be downloaded for free from the service's official website. The application requires Mac OS X Snow Leopard and above in addition to a compatible webcam.

Top Rated Comments

richard.mac Avatar
158 months ago
Oh great :( I am not impressed.

The following is how I want my Skype setup. A simple contact list on the right of my screen, for starting quick conversations and calls.

This is Skype version 2.8. With the newer Skype versions, you cannot achieve window placement as simple as this.

Score: 16 Votes (Like | Disagree)
xplora Avatar
158 months ago
It needs to be noted, Skype 6.18 requires OS X 10.9 Mavericks. While 6.15 will work as far back as Mac OS X 10.6 Snow Leopard
Score: 13 Votes (Like | Disagree)
158 months ago
dis not gun be gud!

----------

Why is this news MacRumors?
since a lot of mac users opt to use skype 3.2 or something because they don't like the bloated new UI since 5.0. They will no longer be able to use their pre microsoft release and be forced to upgrade to the bloat version. Macrumors are just creating a thread for the *****torm to follow :) Might be a good idea in case any Skype devs are cruising these forums since we can't vote with our wallet, have to vote with our flames. I personally use the latest version though :P
Score: 11 Votes (Like | Disagree)
richard.mac Avatar
158 months ago
Why all the complaining. Skype is discontinuing support for the program. It didn't say the program will be turned off and you can't use it. 't will still work on your old machines.

Microsoft clarified the situation. "Once a version is retired, users will no longer be able to sign into the retired version until they upgrade to the latest version of Skype," a Microsoft spokesperson said in an email reply to questions.

^
Score: 8 Votes (Like | Disagree)
158 months ago
I agree. Skype 2.8 reached perfection for a chat client. Compact, floating windows that could be easily moved around your screen allowing you to multitask and txt chat with multiple people - even while on a video call with someone.

The easiest solution around being forced to upgrade is simply to abandon Skype.

I used to use Skype daily, and constantly throughout the day. I updated about 5 months ago and I think I've opened the program twice since then but haven't chatted or made a call with anyone. I send a lot more SMS/imessages and make more phone calls now so I can keep working in the background and communicate with multiple people at once.
Score: 8 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Pakaku Avatar
158 months ago
Oh great :( I am not impressed.

The following is how I want my Skype setup. A simple contact list on the right of my screen, for starting quick conversations and calls.

This is Skype version 2.8. With the newer Skype versions, you cannot achieve window placement as simple as this.

I dunno about you, but if no one pointed it out earlier...



The sidebar in the chat window can also be hidden. This is the latest version, and I can still set it up the same way you did.
Score: 7 Votes (Like | Disagree)

Popular Stories

Waze logo

5 New Waze Features Rolling Out Now: Here Are All the Details

Monday July 13, 2026 3:42 am PDT by
Google today announced that Waze is getting a handful of new features, including some Gemini-powered personalization enhancements for Conversational Reporting. Conversational Reporting already uses Gemini when users report traffic incidents like slowdowns, but now you can use it to suggest map updates like road closures or outdated addresses. Saying something like "The road is closed here"...
Apple 2026 Back to School Graphic

Apple's 2026 Back to School Offer Just Went Live in Select Countries

Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:48 am PDT by
Apple's annual Back to School promotion is now live in select countries in Asia, including China, India, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam. The offer provides college students and educational staff with a free item with the purchase of an eligible Mac or iPad model. The exact offer varies by country, with options including a pack of four AirTags, AirPods 4,...
iphone 17 cyber

Apple Closes Unlocked iPhone Loophole for T-Mobile and Verizon Financing

Wednesday July 15, 2026 3:20 pm PDT by
Carrier-financed iPhones purchased from Apple will soon be locked to the carrier, ending a workaround customers used to purchase an unlocked iPhone on a payment plan. Until the rule change, buying an iPhone from Apple and opting for financing through Verizon or T-Mobile meant you would get an iPhone not locked to either carrier's network. That's no longer the case, and now iPhones financed...