Microsoft extends the Messenger to Skype transition start date to Apr 8th

Earlier Microsoft had set the existing Messenger service retirement date as 15th March 2013. Now the Messenger Team has again sent mails to its users about upgrading its customers from Messenger to Skype. And now the date has been stated as April 8th 2013

So starting April 8th, upgrading customers from Messenger to Skype begins. This extension from March 15th to April 8th , 2013 is done to provide more time for customers to make transition.

Here’s what the Messenger and Skype Teams mail said -

Hello,
Starting April 8th, we will begin upgrading customers from Messenger to Skype. The process will take a few weeks to complete. April 8th is the first day you may be required to upgrade. This is a bit later than the March 15th date we previously mentioned to some of you as we wanted to give you more time to make the transition.
To keep chatting with your Messenger contacts, simply upgrade to the latest version of Skype using the instructions below and sign in using a Microsoft account (this is the same ID you use to sign into Messenger). Once signed in, your contacts will already be there. You'll be able to instant message and make video calls with them just like before, and start discovering new ways of staying in touch, including Skype on your mobile or tablet.
Upgrade now

Yours sincerely,

The Messenger and Skype Teams