Windows Live Messenger Facts for Kids

Windows Live Messenger, a remake of the icon

Windows Live Messenger was a very popular program that let people send instant messages to each other. It was like sending quick text messages back and forth, but on your computer or phone. This program was created by Microsoft, a big computer company, as part of their Windows Live services.

Before it was called Windows Live Messenger, it was known as MSN Messenger. This name change happened when Microsoft updated its MSN services to Windows Live. Eventually, Microsoft decided to stop using Windows Live Messenger (except in China) and encouraged people to use Skype instead. This meant that Windows Live Messenger was "retired" or shut down for most users.

What Was Instant Messaging?
From MSN Messenger to Windows Live
- Key Features of Windows Live Messenger
Why Did It Change to Skype?
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What Was Instant Messaging?

Instant messaging, often called IM, is a way to send text messages in real-time over the internet. It's like having a quick conversation by typing instead of talking. You could see when your friends were online and send them messages instantly. This was a very popular way to chat with friends and family before social media became so big.

From MSN Messenger to Windows Live

The program started its life as MSN Messenger. It was first released in 1999. Over the years, it got many updates and new features. In 2005, Microsoft decided to change the name to Windows Live Messenger. This was part of a bigger plan to bring many of their online services under the "Windows Live" brand. The goal was to make all their different tools work better together.

Key Features of Windows Live Messenger

Windows Live Messenger had many cool features that people loved:

Text Chat: The main feature was sending instant text messages to friends.
Emoticons: You could use little pictures, called emoticons or emojis, to show your feelings.
Voice and Video Calls: Later versions allowed you to talk to friends using your microphone or even see them with a webcam.
File Sharing: You could easily send pictures, documents, and other files to your contacts.
Games: Some versions even had simple games you could play with your friends right inside the chat window.
Winks: These were short, animated clips with sound that you could send to get someone's attention.

Why Did It Change to Skype?

In 2011, Microsoft bought Skype, another popular program for calls and messages. Skype was already very good at voice and video calls. Microsoft decided it made more sense to have one main communication program. So, in 2013, they announced that Windows Live Messenger would be shut down for most users. People were encouraged to switch to Skype, and many of their Messenger contacts were automatically moved over.