Microsoft announced on Friday that it would shutter Skype, marking the end of an era for a platform that once stood as the pinnacle of video communication. Skype, a video calling service that became synonymous with virtual conversations, had been around for more than 20 years. During its peak, the platform was so ubiquitous and original that its name transformed into a genericized verb for video calling.
In an age when few other recognizable programs existed for video calling, Skype became the go-to option for everyday users. Its familiar ringtone, "boop-beep-boop," elicited nostalgic feelings in many, serving as a sonic reminder of its prominence. The platform's influence extended beyond personal communications; it even made its way into popular culture. Movies often created knockoff Skype interfaces whenever characters video chatted, either to abstract the setting from a distinct time or to use the product itself. The documentary "Past Lives" notably used the Skype ringtone to evoke the year 2012, showcasing how ingrained it had become in society's collective memory.
Skype's reach also extended into the world of documentaries. "Borderland: The Line Within," directed by Pamela Yates and Paco de Onis of Skylight Pictures, utilized Skype to portray the journey of immigrants turned activists, Kaxh Mura’l and Gabriella Castañeda. The documentary shed light on the burgeoning industry profiting from the surveillance of immigrants in the US. It aimed to underscore the lucrative contracts enabling the US government to monitor, detain, and deport immigrants.
"People who are undocumented in the US have that fear inside of themselves … that they can be captured and deported," – Yates
"And I think the cruelty amps that fear up." – Yates
The film's narrative focused on companies and corporations benefiting from these surveillance activities. Skype featured prominently in this storytelling, illustrating how technology plays a crucial role in the broader immigration debate.
As Microsoft prepares to shut down Skype, new developments are unfolding in the arena of government technology and software. Elon Musk recently targeted the technology division of the General Services Administration (GSA), specifically 18F. Known for managing federal property and providing contracting options for government agencies, 18F consisted of approximately 90 employees, many of whom were software engineers dedicated to streamlining federal bureaucracy.
Musk's move comes amid ongoing discussions about federal employment practices. Suzanne Summerlin commented on recent developments within the GSA.
"These firings they’re conducting without following the law will result in hundreds of thousands of former federal employees being owed back pay, plus interest, plus benefits, plus attorney fees," – Suzanne Summerlin
This context highlights a broader conversation about technology’s impact on government operations and employee rights.
As Skype prepares to fade into technological history, its legacy remains. For over two decades, it not only connected people across distances but also became a part of cultural narratives and significant societal discussions. The platform's influence in both personal spaces and media underscored its role as more than just a tool—it became a cultural icon.