Microsoft announced today that it would be phasing out the web-based client for its Windows Live (formerly MSN) Messenger service in favor of a browser-based messaging app that works from within Windows Live Mail (formerly Hotmail). This makes a whole lot of sense as it allows users to go to one place two get both email and instant messaging functionality. This especially makes sense because it’s something that Microsoft should have done years ago.
I, like many people who use instant messaging services, do not have a single messaging client installed on my computer. When I want to IM someone, I hop on Gmail (which is for both Gchat and AIM), or I go on Facebook. But I’m never thinking “Oh man, I want to send someone a message right now.” For the vast majority of users, instant messaging is not a primary reason for a web destination anymore. Facebook is a testament to this – you can communicate with people who’re online right away, or you can leave them a message in another way.
