Skype, the popular communication platform, will be discontinued on May 5, 2025, as Microsoft shifts focus to Microsoft Teams. This move affects millions of users worldwide who rely on Skype for video calls, messaging, and meetings.
Indian users are exploring alternatives that cater to both personal and business communication needs. Several platforms offer robust features like voice and video calls, messaging, and collaboration tools. Here’s a list of the top alternatives, along with their features and feasibility for Indian users.
1. WhatsApp
WhatsApp is a widely popular choice for personal communication, offering free voice and video calls, instant messaging, and end-to-end encryption. It also provides a WhatsApp Business API for enterprises to engage with customers. Feasibility-wise, its ease of use and widespread adoption make it an excellent option for individuals and small businesses.
2. Google Meet
Google Meet is ideal for both personal and professional use, especially for those already using Google Workspace. It offers high-quality video conferencing with features like screen sharing and meeting recordings. The free version supports up to 100 participants, while paid plans start at approximately ₹1,040 per user per month, making it feasible for businesses looking for seamless integration with other Google services.
3. Zoom
Zoom is a versatile platform offering virtual meetings, webinars, and team chat. Its AI-powered features enhance productivity through meeting summaries and language translation. The basic plan is free, while paid plans start at around ₹1,500 per user per month, making it suitable for businesses requiring advanced collaboration tools.
4. RingCentral
RingCentral excels in advanced call handling, shared voicemail, and task assignment features. It is tailored for enterprises with complex communication needs. Starting at approximately ₹2,250 per user per month, it is feasible for large organizations seeking robust VoIP solutions.
5. KrispCall
KrispCall stands out with its unified call box feature that integrates personal and business telephony into one dashboard. It offers reliable call quality and 24/7 customer support, making it a feasible option for businesses of all sizes.
6. WebEx
WebEx is a comprehensive solution for businesses offering video conferencing, messaging, polling, and whiteboarding features. It integrates seamlessly with platforms like Slack and Microsoft Teams. Its pricing starts at around ₹1,800 per user per month, making it a strong contender for professional use.
For Individuals:
WhatsApp and Google Meet are the most feasible options due to their free or low-cost plans and user-friendly interfaces.
For Small Businesses:
Platforms like Zoom and KrispCall provide affordable yet feature-rich solutions.
For Enterprises:
RingCentral and WebEx are better suited due to their advanced functionalities tailored for large-scale operations.
These alternatives ensure smooth transitions from Skype while offering modern features that cater to evolving communication needs in India.