Microsoft has recently announced that it’s retiring Windows Live Messenger on March 15, 2013 around the world and is encouraging users to switch to Skype. As part of Windows Essential suite, it is one of the most popular IM client on the Internet, and has been the most used IM client on Windows machines. It was started as MSN Messenger which was designed to work with Windows XP, Vista, Windows 7 and other systems, including Windows Mobile.
At one point, Microsoft reported that it attracted over 300 million active users every month. Now it’s being retired in favor of Skype.
Here’s a part of the confirmed report from Microsoft:
“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.”
If you’re currently a Windows Live Messenger user, you may want to begin transitioning to Skype while you still have time. Begin moving your contacts and other information to Skype.
To install Skype in Windows 7 and 8, Mac and Linux, download a copy from here.
http://beta.skype.com/en/download-skype/skype-for-computer/
In Ubuntu, you may want to read this post to learn how to install Skype.
https://liberiangeek.net/2012/10/install-skype-in-ubuntu-12-10-quantal-quetzal/
Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Microsoft Windows Live Messenger shutting down?
Microsoft Windows Live Messenger is shutting down on March 15, 2013, globally except for mainland China.
What is Microsoft encouraging Windows Live Messenger users to switch to?
Microsoft is encouraging Windows Live Messenger users to switch to Skype.
How can I transfer my contacts from Windows Live Messenger to Skype?
To transfer your contacts from Windows Live Messenger to Skype, update to Skype and sign in using your Microsoft Account (same as your Messenger ID). All your Messenger contacts will be available in Skype.
What platforms does Skype support for installation?
Skype supports installation on Windows 7, Windows 8, Mac, and Linux. You can download Skype for these platforms from the official website.
Where can I download Skype for Windows 7 and 8?
You can download Skype for Windows 7 and 8 from the official Skype website. Simply visit http://beta.skype.com/en/download-skype/skype-for-computer/ to get the installation file.
Can I install Skype on Ubuntu?
Yes, you can install Skype on Ubuntu. Refer to this post for instructions on how to install Skype on Ubuntu 12.10 Quantal Quetzal: https://liberiangeek.net/2012/10/install-skype-in-ubuntu-12-10-quantal-quetzal/
What will happen to my Messenger contacts after the shutdown?
After the shutdown of Windows Live Messenger, all your Messenger contacts will be available in Skype. You can continue to instant message and video chat with them using Skype.
Why is Windows Live Messenger being retired in favor of Skype?
Windows Live Messenger is being retired in favor of Skype to bring together the great features of Messenger and Skype. This transition allows users to access new ways of staying in touch across various devices.