Windows Messenger merges into Skype

Today I received an email from those whose existence I forgot about three years ago.

The Windows Messenger Team hastened to notify me that on March 15, my Microsoft Messenger account will turn into a pumpkin.

On the 15th of March 2013, there is a messenger service globally (except for the mainland of China). Update your Microsoft Account (the same as your Messenger ID) and all your Messenger contacts. You will be able to get in touch with your mobile phone and tablet.

This can be translated into Russian like this:

On March 15 of this year, we are going to turn off the Messenger service, combining its advantages with the advantages of Skype. This offer is not valid only for mainland China, where the service will be available. Now you can use Skype with the credentials of your account in Microsoft Messenger, keeping a list of contacts. Moreover, you will be available: [listing features Skype]

It would seem great news. Microsoft frees human and machine resources from servicing an unpopular service and begins to justify investing in the giant Internet connection purchase. However, a little further in the letter were the details of the “transition” to the “new” program:
')

New to Skype?
1. Get the latest version of Skype.
2. Sign in to Skype with your Microsoft Account.

Already have Skype?
1. Update to the latest version of Skype.
2. Sign in with your Microsoft Account.
3. Merge your existing Skype account with your Microsoft Account.

Which, again in free translation, means: if you have never had Skype, just download this already popular application and identify yourself as a Microsoft Messenger user. But if you already use Skype, you should combine your Skype account with your Microsoft account.

What, you don't want to be a Microsoft user? Bad your business, yes.

Windows Messenger site