Microsoft unplugs Skype from Asterisk

Today Digium (the developer of the open-source PBX-platform Asterisk) has notified its customers that the sales of its product Skype for Asterisk will be terminated since July 26. Recall, Skype and Digium released this Skype for Asterisk connector back in 2009. It allows companies that use Asterisk-based PBX-systems to integrate them with the Skype network and make / receive Skype-calls using the regular office phones. But the new Skype's owner Microsoft, of course, has no particular desire to support the free Asterisk, that competes with its own product Lync (MS Communications Server). So Microsoft decided not to prolong the contract with Digium. Digium assured that existing Skype for Asterisk users will be able to use their Skype-channels during two more years.

It should be noted that Skype has its own service that allows any SIP-based PBX systems (including the Asterisk) to integrate with the Skype network. It's called Skype Connect (formerly Skype for SIP). And hardly Microsoft will close this service. First, it's sold by Skype, i.e. by Microsoft (and not by Digium) and it requires the subscription fee for the use of Skype-channels (4.95 euros per month). Second, Microsoft is still interested in more companies using the Skype network (even if they use IP-PBX systems other than Lync). Because, if they get linked to Skype, it will be more easy to sell them Lync that will allow to get the maximum features of the Skype network.

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