Microsoft Pulls the Plug on Skype

TOKYO, May 06 (News On Japan) - "Skype," once a symbol of digital communication, is set to end its service on May 5th, bringing to a close more than two decades of online calling history.

Launched in 2003, Skype grew into a global internet calling platform, with monthly users surpassing 300 million at its peak in 2016. The app became known for its iconic ringtone and was widely used for both casual and professional conversations. In recent years, however, its popularity has waned amid the rapid rise of video conferencing tools like Zoom.

On social media, the announcement prompted a wave of nostalgia:

"Feels like a part of my youth has disappeared."

"I used to study for exams while chatting on Skype."

"Goodbye, Skype."

Microsoft, which owns Skype, plans to encourage users to migrate to its other communication platform, Teams.

Source: TBS

Number of Children in Japan Falls for 44th Straight Year

Japan’s child population has declined for the 44th consecutive year, reaching the lowest level since comparable records began in 1950, according to government estimates released ahead of Children's Day on May 5th.

Head Lice Are Spreading Again in Japan's Schools

Head lice, small parasitic insects that feed on blood from the scalp, are once again spreading among children in Japan as physical contact increases following the COVID-19 pandemic. In Sapporo, where outbreaks have been reported in schools, local officials are urging caution.

Wooden Church in Gifu Collapses Following Creaking Sounds

A wooden church in Kasamatsu, Gifu Prefecture collapsed on Saturday evening, after years of delayed demolition plans due to financial constraints.

Japan Ranks 66th in Global Press Freedom, Lowest Among G7

Reporters Without Borders has released its 2025 World Press Freedom Index, ranking Japan 66th out of 180 countries and regions surveyed, just behind Timor-Leste (65th) and Fiji (64th).

Trump Raises Tariffs 25% on Imported Auto Parts

The Trump administration has imposed a 25% additional tariff on imported auto parts, including engines and transmissions, with the measure taking effect at 1:01 p.m. Japan time on May 3rd.

MEDIA CHANNELS

MORE Business NEWS

Live Commerce Booms Among Busy Housewives in Japan

A new form of e-commerce known as "live commerce" is rapidly gaining popularity in Japan, especially among housewives. Operated by Osaka-based startup Celest, the model uses social media livestreams to sell products in real time while interacting with viewers.

Rethinking Food Costs as Farmers Struggle to Earn a Living

For many farmers who have long struggled with low income, this price surge has become a rare boost in motivation. As rice prices climb amid nationwide shortages, some producers are finally seeing a chance to earn a sustainable living.

Current State of Japan's Real Estate Market

In Japan’s urban housing market, real estate prices continue to rise, with the average price of a newly built condominium in Tokyo’s 23 wards exceeding 100 million yen in fiscal 2024.

Inside Japan’s Most Surreal Art Experiences

A new wave of art experiences in Japan is captivating domestic and international audiences alike, blending cutting-edge technology with unexpected sources of creativity—including specialists in mathematics and architecture, and artists with disabilities.