Microsoft has finally confirmed that Windows Live Messenger will be put to rest after thirteen years since its founding and will continue with Skype in future.
Microsoft has revealed it will start to discontinue Windows Live Messenger in early part of year 2013. Microsoft will integrate roughly around 100 million Messenger users to Skype as part of the discontinuation process.
“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)” says Skype’s Tony Bates.
Microsoft is now encouraging users to download the latest version of Skype that supports Microsoft accounts, where users can easily integrate Skype and Windows Live Messenger accounts into a single Microsoft account.
For existing Windows Live Messenger users to access their account, they’ll be required to update their Skype client to version 6.0, and login with their Messenger account information. Company has listed the following benefits of switching from messenger to Skype:
- 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
Company says it will assist users over the coming months to smoothly transition over from Windows Live Messenger.