Skype almost died, and a question

[jcarter]

I like Skype, but found a new version stuffed into my computer yesterday without my option of saying No Thanks.
It wanted a Microsoft account number to log in, which I do not have and do not want.
So I had to get tech support and asked them to send me a link for an older version with which I coiuld use my regular log in name and password.
They reluctantly gave it to me.
Now I can use it again. I certainly do NOT want any Microsoft stuff.

My question is, are there other programs like Skype which are very similar which I can switch over to?
Any suggestions?

[Xairbusdriver]

Microsoft "teamed up" with Skype many years ago to improve what their Messenger app provided. One of the things they did was to 'encourage' signing into Skype with a Microsoft account info. Many sites offer similar sign-in options with your Google and/or Faceblast info, even if they don't 'own' each other.

Skype has owned by M$, since May 2013. So, you've been using a M$ 'product' for the last five years. Obviously, they would want you to use their "M$" info to log in.

As for as alternates, I would suggest an interweb search (that's how I found the info above). I find the phone, even a land line works well for me. YMMV.

[jcarter]

My grandson suggested a few, Viber seems the best.
I use Skype for calling people from my computer, its so darn easy, just sit in the chair and talk hands free.

Viber look pretty easy and similar. I will download it soon, but I can still use Skype for a while, but heard it will be deprecated in Sept.