Chavid
Chavid vs Skype

Skype is shutting down.
Chavid is just getting started.

Microsoft is ending Skype. Chavid is the UK-built replacement — with everything Skype had, plus persistent messaging, no download required, and data that stays in the UK.

Microsoft is shutting down Skype

Microsoft announced the end of Skype as a standalone product. If you're still using Skype for personal calls, family catch-ups, or business meetings — now is the time to move. Chavid is the natural upgrade: familiar, simple, and built for the future.

Why Chavid is the right Skype replacement

Six reasons Chavid is the upgrade Skype users have been waiting for.

Skype is being shut down

Microsoft announced the end of Skype. If you're still on Skype, you need to move — and Chavid is the natural upgrade: same ease of use, far more features, and a platform that's growing.

Free audio calls — on a platform that's not shutting down

Like Skype, Chavid offers free peer-to-peer audio calls. Unlike Skype, Chavid is actively growing — no Microsoft account needed, no shutdown date on the horizon.

UK-built, UK-hosted

Skype is owned by Microsoft and runs on US Azure servers. Chavid is built in the UK, hosted in the UK, and governed by UK and Scots law. Your data stays where you are.

No download, no Microsoft account

Skype requires the app and a Microsoft account. Chavid works in any browser — users sign in with their Chavid account, no Microsoft account or download needed.

Threaded replies and pinned messages

Skype's messaging is basic. Chavid supports threaded replies, pinned messages, reactions, and unread counts — everything a modern messaging platform should have.

Built for the next generation

Skype feels like 2010. Chavid is designed for how people communicate today — fast, mobile-first, with the features younger users expect from a modern platform.

GDPR-native, not an afterthought

Chavid was built with UK GDPR compliance from day one. Skype requires additional Microsoft DPA configuration to achieve the same level of compliance.

Full feature comparison

Chavid vs Skype — the complete breakdown.

Video Calling

FeatureChavidSkype
HD group video calls
Up to 100 participantsSkype supports up to 100 but quality degrades significantly
No time limits
Screen sharing
Raise hand in call
Emoji reactions in call
Works in browser — no downloadSkype requires the desktop or mobile app for full functionality
Active development & new featuresMicrosoft is winding down Skype — service ends May 2025

Audio Calls

FeatureChavidSkype
Free peer-to-peer audio callsBoth support free audio calls — Chavid requires no Microsoft account
No Microsoft account needed to callSkype requires a Microsoft account for all calls
Call history with tabs
Active platform (not shutting down)Skype is being discontinued by Microsoft

Messaging

FeatureChavidSkype
Group messaging rooms
Threaded replies
Message pinning
Unread message counts
Push notifications
Business-grade messaging roomsSkype is being replaced by Microsoft Teams for business

Privacy & Compliance

FeatureChavidSkype
UK data storageMicrosoft stores Skype data on US Azure servers
GDPR compliant (UK)Microsoft requires additional DPA configuration
No Microsoft account required to joinA Chavid account is required — no Microsoft account needed
Independent UK companySkype is owned by Microsoft (US)

Future-Proofing

FeatureChavidSkype
Active product roadmapMicrosoft announced Skype shutdown
Growing user baseSkype has been losing users for years
Mobile-first designSkype's mobile app is widely criticised
PWA / install to home screen
Subscription plans for teamsSkype has no team subscription model

Advanced Features

FeatureChavidSkype
Waiting room / lobby
Call recordingSkype had recording but the platform is shutting down
Breakout rooms
Live polls & Q&A
AI live captions

Make the switch before Skype disappears

30-day free trial. UK data storage. No download required. Works on every device.

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