Is there a third party replacement for Windows Live Messenger?

[dc2000]

I know that Microsoft (in their infinite wisdom) will be phasing out their Windows Live Messenger. They want me to install Skype, but I do not want it.

I use WLM on my old XP machine simply as an indicator that I got an email. You know, when it plays that sound and gives me a little popup window by the clock. That is all I need it for.

So I'm wondering if there's any third party program to do this when Microsoft WLM will be no more?

 

[boohbah]

i use trillian, just link it to your hotmail account.
i use it to monitor my gmail, yahoo, hotmail emails and facebook messages.

 

[Gary]

I use Pidgeon, it will handle all of the IM's.

 

[Alejandro85]

If all you want is to get a notification for mail, then MSN isn't a good option either. What about a mail program like Outlook or at least Thunderbird? Those can show icons and notifications and don't come with the messaging thing that MSN has and you don't like.

 

[dc2000]

Thank you, for your suggestions!

 

[barton]

You can also try portable skype if you just don't want it invading your system.