Google Voice vs Skype: what replaces Skype now that it’s gone?
Microsoft retired Skype in May 2025, so this comparison is now about history and what to use instead — Google Voice was never really Skype’s replacement, since it only ever worked in the US.
Why this comparison is now historical
For years, Skype and Google Voice were the two big names in internet calling, but they were never quite direct rivals. Skype worked worldwide — app required, video and group calls included, and paid "Skype Out" credit (which expired) to call real phone numbers, plus a per-call connection fee. Google Voice has always been US-only to sign up, giving free calls within the US and Canada. Skype shut down in May 2025, closing that global option and leaving its international callers looking for what replaces it — which was never Google Voice, since it doesn’t work outside the US.
Google Voice vs Skype (historical) vs Hyallo: side by side
| Feature | Google Voice | Skype | Hyallo |
|---|---|---|---|
| Available today | Yes | No — shut down May 2025 | Yes |
| Worked outside the US | No — US sign-up required | Yes, worldwide | Yes, worldwide |
| Called real phone numbers abroad | Pay-as-you-go, from the US | Yes, via paid Skype Credit | Yes — pay-as-you-go, 180+ destinations |
| Video & group calls | Limited | Yes | No — voice calling only |
| Required installing an app | Yes | Yes | No — browser only |
What it costs to call popular destinations
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The verdict: what should you use in 2026?
Google Voice remains the right free option for someone based in the US calling mostly US and Canadian numbers.
Skype is no longer an option for anyone — it shut down in May 2025. If you’re still searching for it, you need one of its successors instead.
Hyallo fits the gap Skype left: calling real phone numbers abroad, from any country, without installing an app.
Frequently asked questions
Is Skype still available in 2026?
No. Microsoft shut Skype down in May 2025 and moved its meeting features into Microsoft Teams.
Was Google Voice ever a Skype alternative?
Only partially — Google Voice never worked outside the US, while Skype worked worldwide. For international callers, a service like Hyallo is the closer replacement.