Skype Shuts Down as Microsoft Focuses on Teams

After 23 years of revolutionizing internet-based communication, Skype is officially retiring. Microsoft, which acquired Skype in 2011, announced that the iconic messaging and calling app will be shut down on May 5, 2025, as the company shifts its focus entirely to Microsoft Teams. This marks the end of an era for a platform that once boasted 300 million users and pioneered voice and video calls over the internet. But what does this mean for Skype’s remaining users, and why is Microsoft making this move now? Let’s dive into the details.

A Brief History of Skype

Launched in 2003, Skype was one of the first platforms to enable voice calls over the internet, transforming how people communicated globally. Its innovative technology allowed users to make free voice and video calls, send messages, and share files, making it a household name long before smartphones and apps like WhatsApp and Zoom became mainstream.

Microsoft acquired Skype in 2011 for $8.5 billion, hoping to integrate it into its ecosystem. At its peak in 2013, Skype had over 300 million users. However, as competitors emerged and consumer preferences shifted, Skype’s user base dwindled. By 2023, Microsoft reported just 36 million daily active users—a far cry from its heyday.

Why is Microsoft Shutting Down Skype?

The decision to retire Skype is part of Microsoft’s broader strategy to consolidate its communication tools under Microsoft Teams. Teams, which debuted in 2016, was initially positioned as a competitor to Slack, offering a platform for workplace collaboration. Over time, however, Teams evolved into a comprehensive communication tool, integrating chat, video calls, file sharing, and third-party app integrations.

Key Reasons for the Shift:

Streamlining Resources: Maintaining two separate platforms (Skype and Teams) is resource-intensive. By focusing on Teams, Microsoft can allocate more resources to innovation and development.
Declining User Base: Skype’s user numbers have plateaued, while Teams has grown exponentially, now boasting 320 million users.
Market Trends: The rise of smartphones and apps like WhatsApp, Zoom, and FaceTime has made Skype less relevant for personal use.
Integration with Microsoft Ecosystem: Teams is deeply integrated with Microsoft 365, making it a more cohesive solution for both personal and professional use.

What Happens to Skype Users?

Skype users have until May 5, 2025, to decide how to proceed. Microsoft is offering two main options:

1. Migrate to Microsoft Teams

Users can transfer their contacts, chat history, and data to Teams. Microsoft has made this process seamless, allowing users to log into Teams with their Skype credentials and automatically migrate their data. Teams offers additional features like calendar integration, collaborative workspaces, and advanced meeting tools, making it a more versatile platform.

2. Export Your Data

For those who prefer not to switch to Teams, Skype provides a built-in export tool to download chat history, contacts, and other data. However, there’s no direct way to import this data into other platforms, so users will need to manually save important information.

If no action is taken by May 5, Microsoft will retain user data until the end of 2025 before permanently deleting it.

What’s Changing with Teams?

While Teams is a powerful platform, it’s important to note that it lacks some features that were central to Skype’s appeal:

Phone Call Functionality: Teams Free does not support calling mobile or landline numbers, a hallmark feature of Skype.
Skype Numbers: Users will no longer be able to purchase or renew Skype phone numbers, though existing credits can still be used via a Skype Dial Pad integrated into Teams.

Microsoft argues that these changes reflect shifting consumer trends. With the widespread availability of mobile data plans, the need for traditional telephony services has diminished.

The Blurring Line Between Personal and Professional Use

One of the most interesting aspects of this transition is how it highlights the convergence of personal and professional communication tools. Skype began as a consumer product but gained traction in the business world. Conversely, Teams started as a business tool but is now being positioned for personal use.

However, some users may find Teams’ business-oriented branding and features less appealing for casual, personal communication. Microsoft is banking on the familiarity of its ecosystem—tools like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint are used in both personal and professional contexts—to ease this transition.

The Legacy of Skype

Skype’s retirement marks the end of a pioneering platform that changed how we communicate. It introduced millions to the concept of internet-based calls, paving the way for modern apps like Zoom and WhatsApp. While its user base has declined, its impact on the tech industry is undeniable.

What’s Next for Microsoft Teams?

Microsoft is betting big on Teams, not just as a workplace tool but as a comprehensive communication platform for all aspects of life. The company has already rebuilt Teams from the ground up, improving performance and adding new features. With Skype out of the picture, Microsoft can focus entirely on making Teams the go-to app for both personal and professional communication.

A New Chapter in Digital Communication

The shutdown of Skype is a bittersweet moment for many who grew up using the platform to stay connected with loved ones. However, it also represents progress. By consolidating its efforts into Teams, Microsoft is positioning itself to compete in the rapidly evolving world of digital communication.

For Skype users, the next few months will be a time of transition. Whether you choose to migrate to Teams or explore other platforms, one thing is clear: the way we communicate is constantly evolving, and Microsoft is determined to stay at the forefront of this change.

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Entertainment

The Rise and Fall of Trunkster: A Cautionary Tale of Innovation and Overpromise

by George Mensah 2025-02-27

For many travelers, the hassle of lugging around bulky suitcases can turn a dream vacation into a logistical nightmare. Enter Trunkster, a startup that promised to revolutionize the luggage industry with its sleek, tech-forward designs. Co-founders Jesse Potash and Gaston Blanchet appeared on Shark Tank in Season 7, Episode 10, hoping to secure funding to bring their innovative smart suitcase to the masses. While their pitch initially impressed the Sharks, the story behind Trunkster is one of ambition, overpromise, and ultimately, failure. Here’s a closer look at what happened to Trunkster, why it struggled after Shark Tank, and the lessons entrepreneurs can learn from its journey.

The Trunkster Pitch on Shark Tank

When Jesse Potash and Gaston Blanchet stepped into the Tank, they sought a 1.4millioninvestmentfora51.4millioninvestmentfora528 million. Their pitch centered around a smart suitcase designed to address common travel pain points. Key features included:

Zipperless Roll-Top Door: A sleek, durable design that eliminated the need for zippers.
Built-In USB Charging Ports: Allowing travelers to charge devices on the go.
Integrated Handle Scale: A self-contained scale to weigh luggage without additional tools.

The Sharks were intrigued by the innovative design but quickly raised concerns about the company’s $28 million valuation. Potash and Blanchet admitted they hadn’t shipped a single unit, and the valuation was based on presales from crowdfunding campaigns and aggressive revenue projections.

Despite the skepticism, Mark Cuban and Lori Greiner saw potential in Trunkster. They offered $1.4 million for a 5% stake, with two key conditions:

24-Month Guarantee: If the investment wasn’t repaid within two years, their equity would double to 10%.
Royalties on Sales: To mitigate risk, they would receive royalties on units sold.

The deal was struck, and the episode ended on a high note. However, the reality behind the scenes was far more complicated.

Trunkster’s Struggles After Shark Tank

Crowdfunding Controversy

Before appearing on Shark Tank, Trunkster had already raised significant funds through crowdfunding campaigns on Indiegogo and Kickstarter. The Indiegogo campaign brought in 1.5million,whileKickstarteraddedanother1.5million,whileKickstarteraddedanother1.39 million. These campaigns were fueled by preorders from backers eager to get their hands on the innovative luggage.

However, the excitement soon turned to frustration. Many backers reported never receiving their orders, while others complained about the quality of the products that did arrive. The comments on the crowdfunding pages are filled with disappointment, with some backers accusing Trunkster of failing to deliver on its promises.

The Deal That Never Was

Despite the handshake agreement on Shark Tank, there’s no evidence that the deal with Mark Cuban and Lori Greiner was finalized. Neither Shark has publicly commented on the investment, and Trunkster’s subsequent struggles suggest the partnership never materialized. Without the promised funding and support, the company was unable to scale production or fulfill its commitments to backers.

The Downfall of Trunkster

By 2017-2018, Trunkster was effectively defunct. The company’s website went offline, and communication with backers ceased. The once-promising startup had collapsed under the weight of unmet expectations and operational challenges.

What Went Wrong?

Overvaluation and Overpromise: Trunkster’s $28 million valuation was based on presales and projections, not tangible results. This overconfidence alienated potential investors and set unrealistic expectations.
Failure to Deliver: The inability to fulfill crowdfunding orders damaged Trunkster’s reputation and eroded trust with early supporters.
Lack of Scalability: Without sufficient funding and operational infrastructure, Trunkster couldn’t scale production to meet demand.

Where Are the Founders Now?

After Trunkster’s collapse, Jesse Potash and Gaston Blanchet moved on to other ventures. Blanchet founded Storypod, a children’s educational tool, while Potash joined Bungalow, a company specializing in co-living spaces. Both founders have largely stayed out of the public eye, leaving the Trunkster saga behind them.

Lessons Learned from Trunkster’s Journey

Underpromise and Overdeliver: Setting realistic expectations is crucial for building trust with customers and investors.
Focus on Execution: A great idea is only as good as its execution. Trunkster’s failure to deliver on its promises highlights the importance of operational efficiency.
Transparency Matters: Clear communication with backers and stakeholders can help mitigate disappointment and maintain credibility.
Valuation vs. Reality: Entrepreneurs must ground their valuations in tangible metrics, not just projections and presales.

A Story of Ambition and Caution

Trunkster’s journey is a cautionary tale for entrepreneurs and innovators. While the company’s vision was compelling, its inability to execute and deliver on its promises ultimately led to its downfall. For travelers seeking innovative luggage solutions, Trunkster serves as a reminder that flashy features and bold claims are no substitute for quality and reliability. As for Jesse Potash and Gaston Blanchet, their post-Trunkster ventures show that even in failure, there’s an opportunity to learn, grow, and start anew.

Entertainment

From “Shark Tank” to Fintech Innovator: The Journey of Dmitri Love and Bundil

by George Mensah 2025-02-27

The world of startups is filled with highs and lows, and few stories encapsulate this rollercoaster better than that of Dmitri Love and his fintech venture, Bundil. Love’s appearance on Shark Tank in 2018 brought his innovative app into the spotlight, but the journey that followed was anything but straightforward. From a promising pitch to the eventual closure of Bundil, Love’s story is one of resilience, adaptation, and the challenges faced by entrepreneurs of color in the competitive tech landscape. Here’s a deep dive into what happened to Bundil, why the Shark Tank deal fell through, and how Love is thriving today with his new venture, Peas Technology.

The Bundil Pitch on Shark Tank

On October 21, 2018, Dmitri Love stepped into the Shark Tank to pitch Bundil, a fintech app designed to help users invest their spare change into cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin. The concept was simple yet innovative: round up everyday purchases to the nearest dollar and automatically invest the difference into crypto. At the time of the pitch, Bundil was just two months old, with 360 subscribers and a customer acquisition cost of $2.70 per user.

Love’s pitch started nervously, but he quickly regained his composure and impressed the Sharks with his vision. However, not all of them were convinced. Lori Greiner expressed skepticism about cryptocurrency, while Mark Cuban cited a conflict of interest due to his investment in a similar app, ChangED. Daymond John felt the idea was too early-stage, and guest Shark Matt Higgins encouraged Love to consider Kevin O’Leary’s offer.

O’Leary, known as “Mr. Wonderful,” saw potential in Bundil and offered $100,000 for a 50% stake in the company. Despite the steep equity ask, Love accepted the deal on the show, hoping O’Leary’s expertise and resources would help Bundil grow.

**Why the Shark Tank Deal Fell Through**

While the handshake deal on Shark Tank was a moment of triumph, it didn’t translate into a finalized agreement. Love later revealed on the Outside the Tank podcast that he ultimately turned down O’Leary’s offer. The primary reason? The terms were too restrictive.

Love explained that he asked O’Leary for two key commitments:

Dilution Protection: If Bundil raised additional funding in the future, O’Leary would need to dilute his 50% stake.
Additional Capital: O’Leary would provide more funding to ensure Bundil had a sufficient runway to grow.

When O’Leary couldn’t commit to these terms, Love decided to walk away. This outcome isn’t uncommon—Love noted that around 88% of Shark Tank deals fall apart during due diligence. Despite the failed deal, Love maintained a positive relationship with O’Leary’s team and continued to pursue his vision for Bundil.

**Bundil’s Post-Shark Tank Journey**

After the show, Bundil continued to operate and even secured funding outside of Shark Tank. Love highlighted the company’s inclusion in the Capital Factory Accelerator, a prestigious program that mentors promising startups. In a 2019 interview, he expressed optimism about Bundil’s future, mentioning plans to add new features and secure additional funding.

However, Love also faced significant challenges. In a candid LinkedIn post, he shared his frustration with the fundraising process, particularly as a Black entrepreneur. He pointed out that competitors with less traction, weaker teams, and no revenue were raising millions, while Bundil struggled to secure similar support. “Or maybe, we are just Black-founded,” he wrote, highlighting the systemic barriers faced by entrepreneurs of color.

Despite these obstacles, Bundil persisted for several years before Love made the difficult decision to shut it down in early 2023. Reflecting on the closure, he admitted that he should have considered pivoting or exploring new directions sooner.

What’s Next for Dmitri Love?

While Bundil may be gone, Dmitri Love’s entrepreneurial journey is far from over. In 2023, he launched a new fintech startup called Peas Technology, which aims to revolutionize how couples manage their finances. Peas allows users to split bills, save together, and manage their money using an AI-powered financial assistant—all without switching banks.

Love’s vision for Peas is rooted in solving real-world problems. As he explained in a LinkedIn post, the app is designed to make joint finances easier and more transparent, reducing the financial strain often associated with divorce or separation. Peas is currently in private beta, with a waitlist available for early adopters.

In addition to Peas, Love has built a stable career in the fintech sector, working as a product advisor for companies like Seeds and Robin Healthcare. His experience with Bundil has clearly shaped his approach to entrepreneurship, emphasizing resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to solving meaningful problems.

Key Takeaways from Dmitri Love’s Story

The Reality of Shark Tank Deals: Not all deals made on the show come to fruition. Entrepreneurs must carefully evaluate the terms and ensure they align with their long-term goals.
Challenges for Entrepreneurs of Color: Love’s experience highlights the systemic barriers faced by Black founders in securing funding and support.
The Importance of Pivoting: Recognizing when to pivot or explore new directions is crucial for startup survival.
Resilience Pays Off: Despite setbacks, Love’s ability to adapt and innovate has kept him at the forefront of the fintech industry.

A Story of Resilience and Innovation

Dmitri Love’s journey from Shark Tank to Peas Technology is a testament to the resilience and creativity required to succeed in the startup world. While Bundil may not have achieved its full potential, Love’s ability to learn from the experience and pivot to a new venture demonstrates his determination and vision. As Peas Technology gains traction, it’s clear that Love’s story is far from over—and the fintech world is better for it.

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