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This week: Hanging up on Skype

This week: Hanging up on Skype

plus human-like voice, Siri delays, leisure exoskeleton

Brett Bouchard
March 08, 2025

Wise Tech - Technology news for non-tech humans!

I remember my days of using Skype from a remote location across the globe. What about you?

1. RIP: Microsoft is Officially Killing Skype

What’s the tech
Skype is a video and voice calling app that allows people to communicate over the internet. It was one of the first major platforms for online video calls and messaging, launching in 2003.

How it’s used
Skype is used for video calls, voice calls, and instant messaging. It became especially popular for business meetings and keeping in touch with friends and family across long distances.

Why it's news now
Microsoft announced that it will officially phase out Skype, focusing instead on its newer platform, Microsoft Teams (a business communication platform). As technology shifts toward integrated platforms that combine messaging, video calls, and collaboration tools, Skype’s retirement marks the end of an era.

2. The Most Human-like AI Voice Companion Just Released

What’s the tech
An AI voice companion is a virtual assistant powered by artificial intelligence (AI) that can understand and respond to human speech in a natural way.

How it’s used
This new AI companion from Sesame can hold conversations that feel almost human-like, responding to questions and comments with realistic tone and emotion. It could be used for customer service, personal assistance, or just casual conversation.

Why it's news now
This release marks a major step forward in AI’s ability to mimic human interaction. If AI assistants become more lifelike, they could change how we communicate with technology in everyday life.

3. Apple Delays Upgraded Siri

What’s the tech
Siri is Apple’s built-in voice assistant that allows users to control their devices, search for information, and manage tasks using voice commands.

How it’s used
Users can ask Siri to send texts, set reminders, play music, and answer questions. The planned upgrade was expected to make Siri smarter and more responsive.

Why it's news now
Apple has delayed the release of this improved version of Siri, which was expected to offer more advanced language understanding and better conversation skills. This delay could give competitors like Google and Amazon more time to improve their own assistants.

Bonus Topic: What Is A Lightweight Leisure Exoskeleton?

What it does
An exoskeleton is a wearable device that supports and enhances the body’s natural movements using mechanical or electronic assistance.

How it’s used
These lightweight exoskeletons are designed for everyday activities like hiking, walking, or carrying heavy loads. They reduce strain on muscles and joints, making movement easier and less tiring.

Why it's popular
This new generation of exoskeletons is more comfortable and affordable than previous models, opening up the technology for recreational use rather than just industrial or medical applications.

Conversation starter
"Would you ever try an exoskeleton for a hike or a long walk?"