Microsoft have previously made their plans clear about the closing of its Windows Live Messenger service last November and have recently sent a notice out to users confirming the closure will take place on March 15.
“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.”
With the recent launch of Skype 6.0 users have been able to log-in with their Messenger account and integrate it into a Skype account. This way users will be able to keep in contact with Messenger contacts after the March 15 closure.
KitGuru says: Be sure to hold your reminiscent chat sessions in advance of March 15.
A pity as the UI in Skype sucks and isn’t anywhere near as customisable. Started to use Skype since before Xmas as no point continuing with messy tho.