Microsoft makes Windows Live Messenger beta available for public download

Worldwide Computer Products News, May 9, 2006

Worldwide Computer Products News-9 May 2006-Microsoft makes Windows Live Messenger beta available for public download(C)1995-2006 M2 COMMUNICATIONS LTD http://www.m2.com

The new Windows Live Messenger beta from software company Microsoft Corp (Nasdaq:MSFT) has been made available for public download at the Windows Live Ideas website http://ideas.live.com.

The beta version is the next-generation of MSN Messenger, an instant messaging service used by over 230m people around the world, and enables PC-to-phone calling in six additional markets.

Microsoft said the Windows Live Messenger can be easily personalised and features a toolbar to enable one-click access to a user's favourite services. It offers Windows Live Call with Verizon Web Calling service and enables users to make outbound local voice calls and domestic or international long-distance voice calls over the Internet.

The Live Call service is available in France, Germany, Spain, the UK and the US at present and will be added in localised languages and currencies for Austria, Belgium, Finland, Ireland, Italy and the Netherlands from 15 May 2006. Windows Live Messenger users can now purchase cordless phones designed for the service, from companies such as Philips and Uniden Corp, enabling users to make calls away from the PC, anywhere in the home.w

Windows Live Contacts ensures contacts are kept up to date and automatically updated, with contacts integrated and accessible across Windows Live Messenger, Windows Live Mail and MSN spaces. Windows Live Messenger offers video conversation, enabling users with webcams and broadband Internet connections to talk to friends in full screen video, through their computers.

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