The End of Microsoft Messenger is Near

Back in 2011 when Microsoft purchased Skype, many people surely expected changes. Then last November, Microsoft announced that it would shut down its long running instant messaging client, Windows Messenger Live. As expected, it has now been announced to users that the messaging service would close up shop on March 15.

Communicating the big change is an important task for Microsoft to accomplish. In an announcement to all Windows Messenger Live users, Microsoft explained the transition by stating the following:

“On 15th March 2013 we are retiring the existing Messenger service globally (except for mainland China where Messenger will continue to be available) and bringing the great features of Messenger and Skype together. Update to Skype and sign in using a Microsoft Account (same as your Messenger ID) and all your Messenger contacts will be at your fingertips. You’ll be able to instant message and video chat with them just like before, and also discover new ways of staying in touch with Skype on your mobile and tablet.”

Beta releases from Skype back in October, had allowed users to sign in to Skype with their Windows Live ID. They were then able to see the presence of other users of Live Messenger, Xbox, Hotmail, and Outlook.com. They were also able to send and receive instant messages.

As the message from Microsoft indicates, switching to Skype should be a fairly painless transition for any messenger user, as all you need to do is update to Skype. Surely they hope that Messenger users will believe that it is as easy and seamless of a transition as it has been stated that it will be.

Once the former Messenger user makes the transition to Skype, they will be able to use instant messaging services, video calling, landline calling, screen sharing, and video calling.