Microsoft has issued a press release announcing that the beta of Windows Live Messenger is now public:
Microsoft today announced that the new Windows Live Messenger beta is available broadly to the public for download at the Windows Live Ideas Web site. The beta of Windows Live Messenger, which is the next generation of MSN Messenger, the most widely used instant messaging service with more than 230 million customers worldwide, includes customer-driven feature enhancements that make it even easier for consumers to stay in touch with the people and information that matter most to them. Windows Live Messenger was previously available for beta testing by invitation only. The beta also makes PC-to-phone calling available in six additional markets.
I am guessing that this doesn’t take effect immediately, because at the time of writing this, it still requires an invite to sign in. Also, the WLM page at Windows Live Ideas still mentions “signing up”. A new day in Redmond, and that’s all changed. No invite is required and there’s a download link at the ideas page.
The public beta release of Windows Live Messenger has a fresh look and feel — it is easy to personalize and features a toolbar that provides one-click access to customers’ favorite services. Some features include the following:
- Windows Live Call with Verizon Web Calling service
- Cordless phones designed exclusively for Windows Live Messenger
- Windows Live Contacts
- Unified contacts
- Sharing Folders
- Offline instant message (IM)
- Video conversation
View the whole press release for extended information.
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