More than 12 years ago we released the first version of Messenger to help people chat and keep in touch online in a more personal way. One of the unique things about IM and Messenger in particular is that it has always been about the network of people far more than any one “app.” Almost every one of us joined the Messenger network to be with the people who were on the network – to chat, share stories, laugh, gossip, and just be together. Messenger enabled each of us to communicate and share with the people we care about.

Today, we’ve announced on the Skype blog that we are now encouraging all Messenger users to update by downloading the latest version of Skype. In the coming months, we will retire the Messenger apps for all regions worldwide except for mainland China.

Many of us use and love Messenger today – but it’s always been about the people that make up Messenger – not the app itself. We’re confident that Skype provides a better experience and even stronger network – today and even more so in the future, especially with the addition of the Messenger network.