Microsoft confirms Windows Live Messenger to be retired in favour of Skype
Yesterday we reported how Microsoft will be retiring Windows Live Messenger and integrating it into Skype.
We expected that an announcement from Microsoft would be forthcoming very soon but today Microsoft have confirmed the fact.
Skype and Messenger are coming together. Millions of Messenger users will be able to reach their Messenger friends on Skype. By updating to Skype, Messenger users can instant message and video call their Messenger friends.
This effort started with the release of Skype 6.0 for Mac and Windows a few weeks ago, which allows you to sign into Skype using a Microsoft account. Now Messenger users just need to update to the latest version of Skype, sign in using a Microsoft account, and their Messenger contacts will be there.
The goal remains to deliver the best communications experience for everyone, everywhere. Microsoft want to focus efforts on making things simpler for users while continuously improving the overall experience.
We will retire Messenger in all countries worldwide in the first quarter of 2013 (with the exception of mainland China where Messenger will continue to be available).
Once you update to Skype, here are some of the other great features Messenger users can expect:
• Broader device support for all platforms, including iPad and Android tablets
• Instant messaging, video calling, and calling landlines and mobiles all in one place
• Sharing screens
• Video calling on mobile phones
• Video calling with Facebook friends
• Group video calling
To help you learn how to get the most out of Skype, be on the lookout for some special offers later this year as you join your Messenger friends in the migration.
If you haven’t tried Skype and want to experience it for yourself, download the latest version, sign in with your Microsoft account, and try it out.
