Microsoft has started beta testing a Windows Live
Messenger service that includes features such as voice over
IP.
The limited public beta is the first move by Microsoft to revamp
its existing MSN Messenger instant messaging service, which at the
moment simply allows users to share short live messages over the
internet.
Microsoft demonstrated a preview of Windows Live Messenger at
the beginning of last month, with Microsoft chief software
architect Bill Gates saying it was part of Microsoft’s strategy to
make available more on-demand internet-based services to consumers
and businesses.
To deliver the voice over IP service to users in the beta trial,
Microsoft has signed an agreement with telco MCI, which will
initially allow beta testers to make free calls in the US, France,
Germany, Spain and the UK.
Microsoft said the beta will be available to “tens of thousands”
of testers, and will be expanded during the first half of next
year.
As well as VoIP facilities, the beta allows users to drag and
drop files into live conversations, so users can share data and
collaborate on changing it.
Companies including Yahoo and AOL are conducting trials of VoIP
services via their web portals.