MSN/Windows Live Messenger Alternatives
It has been recently revealed that MSN Messenger/Windows Live Messenger will no longer exist. Instead, your Messenger accounts will be upgraded to Skype accounts as of April 8th. The voice communication software application Skype was previously developed by Skype Technologies. Microsoft bought the platform in 2011 for $8.5 billion.
You will be prompted to install Skype from April 8th, but you may want to do so now and get a feel for how it works. You can download it here. Installation and setup are easy: simply follow the on-screen instructions and migrate your existing Messenger contacts.
Skype allows users to communicate via microphone, webcam or as a standard instant messaging service. It makes having conversations online easy, but its not a service for everyone. There have been complaints of poor customer service, bugs that cannot be fixed and money credited out of the blue. If you’d rather not use Skype in the future, here are a few alternatives.
Yes, Google has an instant messaging service. If you have a Google account it’s easy to install and chat to your friends instantly. You can also install the Google Talk Gadget and chat via your personalised Homepage .
Over 1 billion people have a Facebook account, and we bet you’re one of them. It may sound obvious, but Facebook Chat is one of the most popular instant messaging services. It’s the easiest way to keep in touch with your friends (because, let’s face it, they have Facebook too).
AIM was launched back in 1997 and is still going strong today, 16 years later. AIM is slightly similar in appearance to Windows Live Messenger, so if you’re hesitant to make a big transition from Messenger, AIM might be the right instant messaging service for you. Installing the platform and creating an account is easy, and you’re now able to log in via your Apple ID.
Connecting with your friends online will be easy, whichever instant messaging service you decide to use. These are just a few ideas, but we know there are many more. Did we miss any good ones out? Let us know in the comments!
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