Microsoft has taken a surprising step by removing ads from Skype in Windows 11. While the app was replaced by Microsoft Teams as the default in Windows 11, it’s still available for download from the Microsoft Store. This move, part of a new preview build for testers, is a welcome change for Skype users.
In the release notes for Insider build 8.125 of Skype, Microsoft explains that ads have been removed from both Skype channels and chat windows. The aim is to streamline the app and make it less intrusive. This positive step follows a revamp of the image creation option for Skype on desktop platforms, including Windows, macOS, and Linux. Users can now easily expand AI-generated images and enjoy a more polished user interface.
While these improvements are welcome, it’s unlikely that this signifies a broader change in Microsoft’s advertising strategy. The company has been aggressively pushing ads in Windows 11, including within the Microsoft Store and through annoying full-screen pop-ups. This move is more likely focused on making Skype more appealing to users rather than a shift towards a less ad-driven approach.
Despite Microsoft’s focus on Teams, it appears they are still trying to revive Skype, albeit with a less intrusive user experience. This removal of ads in the preview build suggests a potential direction for the future of Skype, but it remains to be seen if these changes will be implemented in the final release.
