Microsoft Rolls Out Beta of Windows Live Messenger

Continuing its conversion of MSN software and services to the Windows Live platform, Microsoft has released a test version of Windows Live Messenger, the next generation of MSN Messenger.

The beta version of the software, made available to the general public, was previously available for testing by invitation only. Windows Live Messenger has a revamped look and feel, new personalization features, and a toolbar that provides one-click access to favorite services.

With a new built-in file-sharing feature, you can drop photos and text files into a folder that is accessible to those on your specified contact list. The contents of the folder, automatically updated as you make changes, are run through a built-in antivirus scanner.

Voice and Video

The beta version of Live Messenger also includes a feature that can automatically update contact lists and make them available through Windows Live Mail and MSN Spaces. And with a synchronized multimedia service, powered by Logitech, you can communicate with full-screen video using a Web cam.

The new software also promises much better voice capabilities, thanks to the integration of Windows Live Call with Verizon's Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) service to allow users in the U.S., the UK, Germany, France, and Spain to link directly to the Verizon offering.

Both Uniden and Philips are providing cordless handsets for Windows Live Messenger. The handsets can be used for either landline or Internet-based phone calls.

Complete Package

"This is an evolutionary upgrade of MSN Messenger, not a major overhaul, but they have made some interesting changes," said Jupiter Research analyst Joe Wilcox. In addition to pointing to the file-sharing capability as a unique feature, he cited the inclusion of Rhapsody's music-streaming service as a noteworthy enhancement.

"Microsoft is trying to tie all of the pieces together in a single network, and this is an integral part of that," Wilcox said. "They are rebranding the MSN online services as Windows Live, and connecting blogs, instant messaging, e-mail, and other communications tools so that consumers don't have to go elsewhere to get them."

In offering online, "live" versions of certain elements of the Windows operating system, said Wilcox, Microsoft hopes to fend off challenges from Yahoo, Google, and AOL while generating revenue through online subscriptions and advertising.

The final version of Live Messenger is expected by the end of the year, and will run on both and Vista. To take the beta version for a spin, visit http://ideas.live.com.

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