Microsoft Adds Phone, Alerts to Windows Messenger

Reuters

October 11, 2001

Microsoft Adds Phone, Alerts to Windows Messenger
SEATTLE (Reuters) - Microsoft Corp.�Œs latest instant messenger software isn�Œs t even available yet but the software giant is already giving it a makeover.



Microsoft said on Thursday said it would beef up the new Windows Messenger in its upcoming Windows XP operating system with Internet telephone calls, the ability to receive alerts like stock information, and easier controls.



Windows Messenger is built into Windows XP, which is to go on retail sale on Oct. 25.



The changes do not apply to MSN Messenger, a separate Microsoft product that is not integrated into Windows and runs on existing versions like Windows 98, Windows 2000 and Windows Me, spokesman Jim Cullinan said.



One of the most popular applications on the Internet, instant messenger lets users send text, pictures and other files to each other over the Web in real time.



Microsoft is fighting a heated battle to wrest market share away from rival AOL Time Warner Inc., which dominates instant messaging. Messaging is seen as an important springboard for a new generation of Web-based services that aim to deliver information to people on different devices.



ALERTS, PHONE CALLS AND TABS



The update, which will be available for download from Microsoft on Oct. 25, adds more features to Windows Messenger, which already added video conferencing and document collaboration to Microsoft�Œs earlier message software.



One key addition is the ability to make calls from a computer to a regular telephone. When activating that feature for the first time, users will have to choose from a list of service providers, Cullinan said.



Windows Messenger would also be capable of receiving so-called .NET Alerts, a Microsoft service now in testing that notifies users of things like online auction bids and even local traffic conditions.



A related feature called Tabs will let users customize their messenger to monitor things like stock prices.



Other companies will be able to create their own Alerts and Tabs for people to include in their messengers, Cullinan said.



Microsoft is also updating the Windows Messenger controls to keep it in line with the feel of Windows XP, which eschews pull-down menus in favor of "task panes" that prominently list options.



Users will also be able to store up to 150 contacts, double the original number allowed by Windows Messenger, Cullinan said.

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