Empathy, alternative Linux à Windows Live Messenger (MSN)
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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.
- Licence
- GPL-3.0
- Prix
- Gratuit
- Dernière version
- —
- Note
- —

Ce qui fonctionne pareil
- 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
Ce qui change
- 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
Ouvrir vos fichiers Windows Live Messenger (MSN)
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.
Passer de Windows Live Messenger (MSN) à Empathy, étape par étape
- 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
Fonctionnalités clés de Empathy
- Prise en charge multi-protocoles via Telepathy
- Messagerie texte, vocale et vidéo
- Transfert de fichiers
- Liste de contacts unifiée
- Statut de présence
- Notifications bureau
- Intégration avec GNOME Shell
Questions fréquentes
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.