Skype helped make free video calling a normal part of everyday life in the 2000s, and its incoming call sound became one of the most familiar tones of the early internet era. As laptops and webcams spread, that bright ring signalled friends, family and colleagues calling from another city or country. Even after newer apps such as Discord took over, creators kept using the clip because listeners recognise it instantly without any explanation. It now works as a nostalgic shorthand for online communication, long-distance friendship and the slightly awkward pause before someone answers.