Tech Obituaries 2025: From Skype to Pocket and More

The year 2025 is proving to be a significant period for the tech sector. Several well-known apps and digital platforms have shut down. This wave of closures marks the end of an era for millions of users worldwide. This includes read-it-later apps like Pocket and video calling pioneers like Skype. Below are five of the most recognized apps and services that have either closed or announced plans to shut down in 2025. We also examine the impact of these closures on everyday users and the broader tech community.

Skype Retirement: Microsoft Ends Support for Skype

Microsoft has officially ended support for Skype, which was once the preferred platform for free internet calls and video chats. After May 2025, the platform, launched in 2003 and acquired by Microsoft in 2011, will no longer be available. Since Microsoft Teams now includes many of Skype's features within a more modern, unified business platform, Microsoft is encouraging users to switch to Teams.

Key Takeaway:

With Skype's retirement, legacy apps are making way for integrated, all-in-one communication tools.

Meta Fact-Checking Ends in the U.S.: A Politically Charged Decision

Citing political bias, Meta (formerly Facebook) terminated its third-party fact-checking program in the United States in early 2025. At the start of Donald Trump's second presidential term, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced that the program would be replaced with a community-moderated model, similar to Community Notes on X (formerly Twitter).

While the fact-checking program continues in countries like India, experts warn that Meta's U.S. decision could reduce content oversight and increase the spread of misinformation. The move also raises concerns that other tech platforms may follow suit in scaling back their verification efforts.

Pocket App Shutdown: Mozilla Retires Popular Content-Saving Tool

On July 8, 2025, Pocket—the popular read-it-later service—will go offline. Mozilla, which acquired Pocket in 2017, announced the shutdown as part of a broader product strategy. Users will have until October 8, 2025, to export their saved content. After this date, the app will be permanently removed from all app stores.

User Tip:

Use Pocket’s export function before the deadline to preserve your saved articles and resources.

Piggy Fintech Platform Closes: Users Asked to Withdraw Funds

By June 30, 2025, Piggy, a direct mutual fund investment platform known for its zero-commission model, will cease operations. Before the service shuts down, users are required to transfer or withdraw their funds. Although the company has not provided specific reasons for the closure, it reflects the increasing challenges faced by startups in the highly competitive fintech sector.

Impact:

As smaller fintech firms struggle to expand their user base and manage compliance costs, industry consolidation is accelerating.

TikTok Creator Marketplace Discontinued and Rebranded

In April 2025, TikTok introduced a major shift by shutting down its Creator Marketplace and launching TikTok One, a new AI-powered platform. This updated tool replaces traditional creator-brand partnerships with automated workflows and AI-generated brand avatars. While the move may enhance advertising efficiency, many influencers worry that the human element of content creation is being sidelined.

Trend Alert:

There is growing debate over the increasing role of AI in the creator economy and its potential to diminish human-driven creativity.

What Users Can Expect from These Tech Shutdowns

The mid-year wave of shutdowns in 2025 has introduced a new digital reality. Popular apps that once felt indispensable are now disappearing due to strategic shifts, AI disruption, mergers, or regulatory changes. This trend has made it clear that no platform is immune to obsolescence.

Actions Users May Take:

• Stay informed about app shutdown timelines and announcements.
• Regularly back up important data and files from all platforms.
• Seek out viable alternatives in advance to minimize disruption.

More Tech Closures May Follow in 2025

With six months remaining in the year, analysts suggest that more closures could be on the horizon. The combined forces of artificial intelligence, evolving user behavior, and regulatory pressure may prompt further shutdowns or rebranding across the industry.

Even the most recognizable and widely used applications may eventually become digital relics. If 2025 has highlighted one truth, it is the importance of digital preparedness: keep your data backed up, stay alert to industry trends, and be ready to adapt.

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