Apple is quietly delving into the world of generative AI technology, using its in-house “Apple GPT” for various internal purposes. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman shed light on how employees are utilizing this technology, revealing a potential application in customer service. Apple has already developed an AI chatbot, similar to ChatGPT, which employees use to prototype future features, summarize text, and provide answers based on the data it has been trained with. Additionally, the company is exploring ways to incorporate its large language model (LLM) into other operational areas, such as AppleCare, to assist customers.
NEW: Apple races to build next-generation, Generative AI features to catch up with OpenAI and Google. The company has developed a framework called “Ajax” to build LLMs and has deployed “Apple GPT” internally. It’s aiming for a consumer product next year. https://t.co/jOk6e67QOK
Unlike its tech counterparts, Apple has taken a cautious and secretive approach to generative AI for consumers. The term “AI” was conspicuously absent from Apple’s WWDC 2023 event, and CEO Tim Cook has emphasized the importance of deliberate and thoughtful deployment of AI. While possibilities for incorporating generative AI into Siri are evident, Apple has remained tight-lipped about its consumer-oriented plans. In a previous report, Gurman hinted at a significant AI-related announcement from Apple in the future, but its specific focus on consumers remains uncertain.
As a characteristic maverick in the tech landscape, Apple is unlikely to follow the trends of other companies. Instead, the integration of generative AI is expected to have Apple’s distinctive approach, potentially revolutionizing its products and services in unforeseen ways.
After more than two decades of connecting people across the globe, Skype, the pioneering video-calling service, is officially shutting down. Microsoft, its parent company, has announced that Skype will sunset on May 5, 2025. This marks the end of an era for a platform that revolutionized communication, enabling millions to stay connected with friends, family, and colleagues through voice and video calls.
For current Skype users, the transition doesn’t have to be daunting. Microsoft is offering two primary options: migrate to Microsoft Teams or export your Skype data and switch to an alternative video-calling service. To help you navigate this change, we’ve created a comprehensive guide to migrating to Teams, exporting your data, and exploring the best Skype alternatives available today.
How to Migrate from Skype to Microsoft Teams
Microsoft Teams has emerged as the natural successor to Skype, offering a more robust and feature-rich platform. Here’s how to make the switch:
Sign in to Teams: Before May 5, 2025, Skype users can log in to Microsoft Teams using their existing Skype credentials.
Automatic Data Transfer: Once logged in, all your Skype contacts, chat history, and files will automatically migrate to Teams.
Explore Teams Features: Teams offers everything Skype did—and more. Key features include:
One-on-one and group calls (supports up to 10,000 participants).
Messaging and file sharing.
Advanced security features for business and personal use.
Integrations with tools like Office 365, OneDrive, Trello, Salesforce, and Evernote.
Teams is available on Android, iOS, Mac, PC, and web browsers, making it a versatile choice for both personal and professional use.
How to Export Your Skype Data
If you prefer not to switch to Teams, you can still preserve your Skype data for future use. Here’s how to export your information:
Log in to Skype: Open the app and sign in to your account.
Access Settings: Click the three horizontal dots under your account name in the top-left corner.
Navigate to Account Settings: Go to Settings > Account & Profile > Your Account.
Export Data: On the Skype web portal, choose from the following options:
Export contacts (.csv)
Export Caller ID numbers (.csv)
Export files and chat history (includes conversations and files).
Submit Request: Click Submit Request and Continue.
Download Your Data: Once the export process is complete, click Download to save your data locally.
This ensures you retain access to valuable information, such as messages, files, and contact details, even after Skype shuts down.
Top Skype Alternatives for 2025
If you’re looking for a new platform to replace Skype, here are some of the best alternatives available:
1. Google Meet
Best For: Casual users and businesses already using Google Workspace.
Key Features:
Free for up to 100 participants (60-minute limit for groups of 3+).
Screen sharing, meeting recordings, and live captions.
Paid plans ($7/month and up) offer breakout rooms, polls, and AI-powered tools via Gemini.
2. Zoom
Best For: Professionals and businesses needing reliable video conferencing.
Key Features:
Free plan supports 100 participants (40-minute limit).
Screen sharing, whiteboard, and meeting transcripts.
Paid plans ($13/month and up) include AI Companion for meeting summaries.
3. Webex by Cisco
Best For: Enterprises and teams requiring advanced collaboration tools.
Key Features:
Free plan for 100 participants (40-minute limit).
Screen sharing, whiteboard, and meeting recordings.
Paid plans ($12/month and up) include AI assistant and live polling.
4. Discord
Best For: Gamers, small teams, and informal groups.
Key Features:
Free plan with unlimited meeting lengths.
Screen sharing, breakout rooms, and meeting recordings.
Affordable paid plans ($5/month and up).
5. Slack
Best For: Teams needing seamless chat-to-call transitions.
Key Features:
Huddle feature for quick audio/video calls.
Free plan supports 2 participants; paid plans ($7/month and up) support up to 50.
6. Signal
Best For: Privacy-conscious users.
Key Features:
Encrypted group video calls for up to 50 participants.
Free to use with no time limits.
7. WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and Apple FaceTime
Best For: Mobile users and small groups.
Key Features:
Free, easy-to-use platforms for casual video calls.
Limited to smaller groups compared to other alternatives.
Why This Matters
The shutdown of Skype marks a significant shift in the world of digital communication. While it’s bittersweet to say goodbye to a platform that has been a staple for so many, the transition to newer tools like Microsoft Teams or other alternatives offers exciting opportunities to explore more advanced features and capabilities.
Whether you’re migrating to Teams or exploring other platforms, the key is to choose a service that aligns with your needs—be it for personal use, professional collaboration, or privacy-focused communication.
Key Takeaways
Skype will officially shut down on May 5, 2025.
Users can migrate to Microsoft Teams or export their Skype data for backup.
Top alternatives include Google Meet, Zoom, Webex, Discord, Slack, and Signal.
Each platform offers unique features, so choose one that best fits your communication needs.
Final Thoughts
As we bid farewell to Skype, we also embrace the next generation of communication tools designed to keep us connected in an increasingly digital world. By staying informed and proactive, you can ensure a smooth transition and continue enjoying seamless communication with your loved ones, colleagues, and communities.
In the early 2010s, the smartphone market was a battleground. Apple’s iPhone and Google’s Android were dominating the scene, but there was a third player that aimed to shake things up: the Windows Phone.
Microsoft, a tech giant with a storied history, entered the smartphone arena with high hopes. The Windows Phone was sleek, innovative, and backed by one of the most powerful companies in the world. Yet, despite its potential, the Windows Phone failed to capture the market and was eventually discontinued in 2017.
What went wrong? How did a product from a company as influential as Microsoft fall so short? This is the story of why the Windows Phone failed—a tale of missed opportunities, strategic missteps, and fierce competition.
The Promise: A Fresh Start for Smartphones
When Microsoft launched the Windows Phone in 2010, it was hailed as a breath of fresh air in a market dominated by Apple and Android.
The Design: Metro UI
The Windows Phone stood out with its unique Metro UI, featuring live tiles that displayed real-time information. This design was clean, modern, and unlike anything else on the market. It won praise for its simplicity and innovation, even earning design awards.
The Vision
Microsoft envisioned the Windows Phone as more than just a smartphone—it was part of a broader ecosystem that included Windows PCs, tablets, and the Xbox. The idea was to create a seamless experience across devices, something Apple would later perfect with its ecosystem.
The Problems: Why the Windows Phone Struggled
Despite its promising start, the Windows Phone faced numerous challenges that ultimately led to its downfall.
1. Late to the Game
By the time the Windows Phone launched, Apple and Android had already established a strong foothold in the market. The iPhone had been around since 2007, and Android was gaining traction with a wide range of devices. Microsoft’s late entry made it difficult to compete.
2. Lack of Apps
One of the biggest criticisms of the Windows Phone was its lack of apps. Developers were hesitant to invest in the platform, leaving users without access to popular apps like Instagram, Snapchat, and even Google’s own services.
The App Gap
While Microsoft tried to incentivize developers, the app gap remained a significant issue. For many consumers, a smartphone without their favorite apps was a deal-breaker.
3. Weak Ecosystem
Microsoft’s vision of a unified ecosystem was ahead of its time, but the execution fell short. The integration between Windows Phone, Windows PCs, and Xbox was clunky and inconsistent, failing to deliver the seamless experience Microsoft had promised.
4. Poor Marketing
Microsoft struggled to communicate the value of the Windows Phone to consumers. While Apple and Android had clear, compelling messaging, Microsoft’s marketing efforts were often confusing and failed to resonate with the public.
5. Carrier and Manufacturer Support
Unlike Android, which had the backing of numerous manufacturers and carriers, the Windows Phone had limited support. This made it harder for Microsoft to compete in terms of device variety and distribution.
The Competition: Apple and Android’s Dominance
The failure of the Windows Phone wasn’t just about its own shortcomings—it was also about the strength of its competitors.
Apple’s Ecosystem
Apple’s ecosystem, with its seamless integration between the iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch, set a high bar. The Windows Phone couldn’t match this level of cohesion, making it less appealing to consumers.
Android’s Flexibility
Android’s open-source model allowed for a wide range of devices at various price points, giving consumers more choices. In contrast, the Windows Phone was limited to a handful of devices, most of which were mid-range or high-end.
The Turning Point: Nokia’s Acquisition
In 2013, Microsoft acquired Nokia’s mobile division in a $7.2 billion deal, hoping to boost the Windows Phone’s prospects.
The Nokia Lumia Series
Nokia’s Lumia phones, with their colorful designs and impressive cameras, were some of the best Windows Phones on the market. However, even these devices couldn’t overcome the platform’s broader issues.
A Costly Mistake
The acquisition proved to be a costly mistake. Instead of revitalizing the Windows Phone, it added to Microsoft’s financial losses and ultimately led to the division being shut down.
The End: Discontinuation and Legacy
In 2017, Microsoft officially discontinued the Windows Phone, marking the end of an era.
What Went Wrong?
The Windows Phone failed for several reasons:
It was late to the market.
It lacked a robust app ecosystem.
Its ecosystem integration was weak.
It faced fierce competition from Apple and Android.
Lessons Learned
The failure of the Windows Phone offers valuable lessons for tech companies:
Timing is crucial. Entering a market too late can be a significant disadvantage.
Ecosystems matter. A seamless, integrated experience is key to winning consumers.
Developer support is essential. Without a strong app ecosystem, even the best hardware can fail.
The Legacy: What Remains of the Windows Phone
While the Windows Phone is no longer around, its influence can still be seen in the tech world.
Design Innovations
The Metro UI’s live tiles inspired similar features in other platforms, such as Android’s widgets and Apple’s Today View.
Microsoft’s Mobile Strategy
Microsoft has shifted its focus to software and services, such as Office and Azure, rather than hardware. This strategy has proven more successful, allowing the company to remain relevant in the mobile space without competing directly with Apple and Android.
A Cautionary Tale in Innovation
The story of the Windows Phone is a cautionary tale in the fast-paced world of technology. It’s a reminder that even the most innovative ideas can fail without the right strategy, timing, and execution.
While the Windows Phone may be gone, its legacy lives on—not just in the lessons it taught, but in the impact it had on the tech industry. It’s a testament to the challenges of innovation and the importance of staying ahead in an ever-changing market.
