Microsoft informed users it will be shutting off ‘Windows Live Messenger,’ its instant messaging service from March 15, with the exception of mainland China. To ease the transition, it released Skype 6.0 for Mac and Windows in November, which allows users sign into ‘Live Messenger’ using their Microsoft details and also lets Messengers log into Skype using their Facebook details. Messenger users will still be able to use their contacts but will be forced to contact them via Skype instant messaging (IM) or VoIP call, if they wish. This is the latest convergence of Microsoft and Skype services after the Redmond based software giant purchased the wildly popular VoIP service Skype in 2011 for a massive $8.5bn. “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,” Microsoft reassured users in a email. Read: Microsoft Sells 60M Wndows 8 |
