The Redmond, Washington-based technology giant announced in November that it was shutting down Messenger in favor of merging users into Skype. The transition began late last year with the release of Skype 6.0 software that lets people sign in to the online communication service using Microsoft accounts. Messenger will be shut off in every but China.Skype features include video calls and being able to call mobile phones from computers, as well as being able to connect with friends at leading Social network Facebook. A Skype feature on Facebook, a social network in which Microsoft owns a small stake, allows for multi-person conversations and instant one-on-one video calls with friends.
Skype users can make low-cost or free phone calls over the internet using their computers or smartphones. Skype bypasses the standard telephone network by channeling voice and video calls over the Web. Microsoft bought Skype $8.5 billion in 2011.Keywords: Skype, Skype 6.0, Smartphones, Free Internet calls, Skype features.