EmpathyLinux
vs
Windows Live Messenger (MSN)Windows
Empathy as a Linux alternative to Windows Live Messenger (MSN)
Updated
Our verdict
Empathy is a direct, native Linux replacement for Windows Live Messenger, sharing its multi-protocol heritage. It handles text, voice, video, and file transfers well. However, both are discontinued. Empathy is a solid choice if you are already in the GNOME ecosystem and use protocols still supported by Telepathy. For new users, it is risky because lack of updates means broken protocols and security gaps. It suits users who need a local, open-source IM client and are comfortable with older software, but not those relying on modern, active platforms.
- License
- GPL-3.0
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- —
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Supports multiple instant messaging protocols simultaneously
- Features integrated text, voice, and video chat capabilities
- Provides file transfer functionality within chat windows
- Displays presence status and handles desktop notifications
- Maintains a unified contact list across different services
What is different
- Empathy is discontinued and no longer receives security or protocol updates
- Empathy relies on the Telepathy framework, which is also largely obsolete
- Windows Live Messenger had deep integration with Windows Live services, which Empathy lacks
- Empathy integrates specifically with GNOME Shell, whereas MSN was Windows-specific
- Empathy does not support modern protocols like Signal or WhatsApp natively
Opening your Windows Live Messenger (MSN) files
Empathy does not natively import Windows Live Messenger contact lists or chat logs. You would need to manually export contacts from MSN (if you still have access) to a CSV or vCard file and then import them into Empathy. Chat history files are not compatible and cannot be directly opened. File transfers are standard and compatible, but historical data migration is manual and limited.
Switching from Windows Live Messenger (MSN) to Empathy, step by step
- Install Empathy and the necessary Telepathy connectors for your protocols
- Export your contact list from Windows Live Messenger to a vCard or CSV file
- Import the contact file into Empathy via the Contacts menu
- Configure each protocol account with your credentials and server settings
- Set up desktop notifications in GNOME Settings to match your preferences
- Test file transfer and voice calls to ensure audio hardware is working
Key features of Empathy
- Multi‑protocol support via Telepathy
- Text, voice and video chat
- File transfer
- Unified contact list
- Presence status
- Desktop notifications
- Integration with GNOME Shell
Frequently asked questions
Is Empathy still maintained?
No, Empathy is discontinued. It no longer receives updates, bug fixes, or support for new protocols. It may break as servers change or security patches are missed.
Can I use Empathy with modern apps like WhatsApp or Telegram?
Not directly. Empathy relies on Telepathy, which does not support these modern, proprietary protocols. You would need separate clients for those services.
What is a better alternative to Empathy today?
Consider Matrix-based clients like Fractal or Element, or Pidgin for multi-protocol support. These are actively maintained and support modern protocols better than Empathy.
3 other alternatives to Windows Live Messenger (MSN)
PidginPidgin is a free, multi‑protocol instant messaging client for Linux, Windows and macOS.Open sourceFreeFlatpakPidgin vs Windows Live Messenger (MSN)
KopeteKopete is a discontinued multi-protocol instant messaging client designed for the KDE desktop environment.Open sourceFreeDiscontinuedKopete vs Windows Live Messenger (MSN)
aMSNaMSN is a discontinued open‑source client that mimicked Windows Live Messenger on Linux.Open sourceFreeDiscontinuedaMSN vs Windows Live Messenger (MSN)