Lync and Skype Overview

The next major version of the Lync software is planned for the first half of 2015 and will be renamed Skype for Business. Release and retirement dates for current and upcoming versions of the server are shown above. Major Lync client and service versions generally follow the schedule for the server.

Updated mobile clients and improved conferencing capabilities arrived in 2014, as did updates to enable presence exchange, instant messaging, and voice calls with Skype for consumers. Microsoft partners also released conference room systems based on a specialized Lync Room Systems client (not shown).

Live Communications Server 2005 will leave Extended support on Apr. 14, 2015. Organizations still on Live Communications Server 2005 should move to a supported version, prior to that date, to ensure their systems are protected and receive security patches.

In 2014 and beyond, Microsoft will rename Lync Skype for Business, and is expected to provide further compatibility in the user interfaces for Skype for Business and Skype consumer clients. Improvements to Skype for Business Online features should include enterprise voice services to connect to public telephone networks and support for large online meetings that can handle thousands of attendees.