For years, Skype was a go-to platform for remote interpreting, offering a simple way to connect interpreters and clients across a range of settings.  But now, the era of Skype is officially coming to an end: Microsoft is sunsetting Skype in just over a month. That means it’s not just about finding a platform with better features—Skype will no longer be an option. 

With this shift, it’s essential for interpreters to understand their alternatives—and be ready to adapt quickly. 

While clients typically select the platform for remote sessions, interpreters can and should offer input based on their technical expertise and firsthand experience. Educating clients about what works best for interpreting, and why, can lead to smoother sessions and better outcomes for everyone involved. 

So, what are the best alternatives to Skype that meet the evolving needs of interpreters? 

Let’s explore a few standout platforms designed to support effective remote interpreting, offering features like multi-channel audio, relay capabilities, interpreter-specific workflows, and strong security. 

  1. Zoom – The Industry Current Favorite

What interpreters might appreciate: 

  • Built-in interpretation feature – Allows multiple language channels, making it ideal for multilingual events. 
  • Ability to assign a sign language interpreter – Supports accessibility
  • High-quality audio & video – Clear sound is crucial for effective communication.
  • Breakout rooms – Perfect for smaller discussion groups or consecutive interpreting needs.
  • Recording options – Sessions can be recorded for quality assurance or reference. 

Best For: 

  • Simultaneous and consecutive interpreting
  • Large conferences with multilingual needs 
  • Remote court and medical interpreting 

 

  1. Microsoft Teams – A Strong Corporate Choice

 What interpreters might appreciate: 

  • Enterprise-level security – Ideal for legal and medical interpreting, requiring compliance with privacy laws.
  • Seamless integration – Works well with Microsoft 365, making scheduling and document sharing easy.
  • Live captions & transcription – Helpful for accessibility and note-taking.  

Best For: 

  • Corporate meetings 
  • Legal depositions and business negotiations 
  • Teams already using Microsoft’s ecosystem 

 

  1. Interprefy – Built for Professional Interpreting

 What interpreters might appreciate: 

  • Specifically designed for remote interpreting – Unlike generic video platforms, it caters to interpreters’ needs.
  • Relay interpreting available – Supports complex multilingual setups.
  • Cloud-based & no downloads required – Reduces technical issues for clients. 

Best For: 

  • Large-scale international conferences 
  • Relay interpreting setups 
  • Professional RSI (Remote Simultaneous Interpreting) 

 

  1. KUDO – Multilingual Meetings Made Easy

 What interpreters might appreciate: 

  • Built-in RSI technology – Supports professional-grade simultaneous interpreting.
  • Scalable for events and small meetings – Works for both corporate and government settings.
  • High interpreter engagement – Allows for better interaction with clients. 

Best For: 

  • Government organizations and NGOs
  • International business meetings
  • Remote simultaneous interpreting (RSI) 

 

  1. Webex – Trusted for Security & Reliability

What interpreters might appreciate: 

  • End-to-end encryption – Ensures privacy for sensitive conversations.
  • High-definition audio – Reduces sound issues that can hinder interpreting.
  • Interpreter handover option – Allows smooth transitions between interpreters. 

Best For: 

  • Legal and medical interpreting
  • Secure corporate discussions
  • Organizations prioritizing security 

 

Which One Is Best for You? 

The best Skype replacement for interpreters depends on your specific needs: 

  • For everyday business meetings? → Zoom or Microsoft Teams 
  • For high-security interpreting? → Webex or Microsoft Teams 
  • For professional RSI events? → Interprefy or KUDO 

With Skype disappearing soon, now is the time to make a smooth transition. Whether you’re working with legal, medical, or international clients, the platform you use can directly affect the quality and professionalism of your interpreting work. 

Are you already using one of these Skype alternatives? Or do you have another favorite that works well for interpreting? Let us know—we’d love to hear what’s working for you.