Last November Microsoft announced that they will be discontinuing Messenger their instant messenger client for Skype. Well the time is upon us. In January Microsoft let all of the users know that this will be taking place with this memo:
Hello,
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.
Yours sincerely,
The Messenger Team
Once you migrate to Skype you will be able to use Skype’s instant messaging features as well as any of the other functions that you get from Skype.