The shutdown will take place on March 31 this year

Feb 28, 2017 10:44 GMT  ·  By

Microsoft has announced that it’s killing the Skype Wi-Fi service and retiring all mobile apps available on Android, iOS, and Windows, as part of an effort to focus on what it describes as “core features.”

Skype Wi-Fi, whose purpose is to allow customers to buy Wi-Fi access in paid public hotspots and thus make roaming calls a lot more affordable, will go dark on March 31, with a notification now being sent to users across the world.

“After March 31, the Skype WiFi will no longer be available. If you still have the Skype WiFi application installed after this date, it will no longer be able to help you find and use hotspots. You may still use any remaining Skype Credit you have towards calls to landlines and mobiles. If you have further questions regarding your remaining Skype Credit, you may contact customer service,” this notice reads.

Microsoft doesn’t specifically explain why it’s giving up on Skype Wi-Fi, but it’s believed the company will introduce its features into other products. The firm claims this decision comes as a result of its focus on efforts to “bring you the best possible experience.”

The companion mobile apps for Android, iOS, and Windows devices will be retired as well on March 31, so even if you installed them on your phone already, you won’t be able to use them after this deadline.