Windows Live Messenger...

[Teddy Rogers]

Microsoft has announced today that the new Windows Live Messenger is available to all users, the application being available until now only to beta testers by invitation only.

“Windows Live Messenger is changing the way people communicate and stay in touch. With powerful sharing, collaboration and communications tools designed to put the user firmly in control of their communications experience, Windows Live Messenger is a key part of the foundation of Windows Live. The several million consumers already in the managed beta have been giving us great feedback, and we’re excited to make the beta of Windows Live Messenger to users worldwide,” said Martin Taylor, corporate vice president of Windows Live and MSN at Microsoft.

Aside from the features available so far, this beta also offers the PC-to-phone feature to six new markets.

Here’s a list of all the important features in the new Windows Live Messenger:

- Windows Live Call with Verizon Web Calling service. With one click, users can go directly to the Windows Live Call feature and, through the Verizon Web Calling service, place affordable outbound local voice calls and domestic or international long-distance voice calls over the Internet. Service is already offered to Messenger customers in five countries: the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, France and Spain. As of next week, this calling service will be available in localized languages and currencies for six new markets: Austria, Belgium, Finland, Ireland, Italy and the Netherlands.

- Cordless phones designed exclusively for Windows Live Messenger. Beginning today, customers will be able to purchase phones from companies such as Uniden Corp. and Philips that make Windows Live Call available through the handset.

- Sharing Folders. By simply dragging and dropping their files and personal photos of any size to their Windows Live Messenger window, customers can share them with family, friends and colleagues.

- Video conversation. The free synchronized audio and video service in Windows Live Messenger, powered by Logitech International SA, allows customers to view and talk to their friends through their PCs in full-screen video.

Ted.