A report surfaced yesterday that suggested Microsoft was planning to replace its Windows Live Messenger chat client with Skype, the VoIP client it acquired last May. “Skype and Messenger are coming together,” the company explained on its website. “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.”
Microsoft said it will officially kick Windows Live Messenger to the curb during the first quarter of 2013 but will leave it live in mainland China. “We will work with you over the next few months to help you transition and offer information and help along the way,” the company assured its users. “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.”
[via Microsoft]