eSAFETY GUIDE

Skype

13+
minimum age according to Skype
13+ minimum age according to Skype

What was Skype?

Skype was an audio and video calling app that allowed you to video chat, instant message and make voice calls with other people, anywhere in the world, in real time. Skype could be used to make private or group video and audio calls, stream live video, add live subtitles, translate conversations, record calls, share screens, send text messages and share content like photos, links and files. It was owned by Microsoft.

Skype used standard end-to-end encryption for privacy and could be integrated with other Microsoft applications. In workplaces, it could be used for hosting remote meetings, delivering online presentations, teleconferencing and text message chat over internal networks.

Skype was available as desktop and mobile apps, from web browsers and Xbox One. Basic accounts were free, with subscription options offered for Skype-to-phone calling however this feature did not replace the need for a telephone and could not be used to make emergency calls.

Platforms: Windows, Mac OS X, Linux, Android, iPhone, Windows 10 Mobile, iPad, Android tablets, Xbox One.

Website: skype.com

Skype is no longer operating as of 5 May 2025.

How did people use Skype?

Learn more about the benefits and risks associated with how people use online audio and video calling and messaging apps like Skype.

Skype is used for: encrypted, in-app purchasing, live streaming, messaging/online chat, online relationships, photo/video sharing, screen capture, video calling and voice chat.

Social media changes are coming

From 10 December 2025, certain social media platforms won’t be allowed to let Australian children under 16 create or keep an account.

Find out more at eSafety’s social media age restrictions hub.

About The eSafety Guide

The eSafety Guide helps you find out how to protect your personal information and report harmful content on common social media, games, apps and sites. Entries are for information only and are not reviews or endorsements by eSafety. Before choosing to use any online service or platform it’s best to:

  • do your own research to understand the risks and benefits
  • check the age rating and requirements
  • consider privacy
  • check the permissions and other settings
  • check the in-app reporting options.

If you are a parent or carer who is deciding whether a child should be allowed to use an online service or platform, you can also:

  • consider your child's readiness for the types of content and experiences they might encounter
  • help them understand what to do if they need help
  • provide ongoing support and monitoring, for example through regular check-ins with your child
  • agree to some rules about use of each service or platform.

To find out more, you can read the App checklist for parents, as well as information about parental controls in social media, games and apps and mental wellbeing resources for families.