Watch videos with your friends on WLM

[Yahooligan]

Microsoft has launched a new online service in 20 countries which will allow users to watch video clips at the same time as a network of friends and chat via Windows Live Messenger.

The new service called Messenger TV will offer a range of clips on MSN Video including MTV shows and music clips from providers such as Sony BMG.

The firm hopes the ability to watch clips with friends on different computers will create a new social experience and attract users who already spend hours on social networks.

"Online video has exploded in popularity over the last year, but to date it has been something people watch on their own. Messenger TV is set to change all that," said John Mangelaars, the vice-president, EMEA, of consumer and online for Microsoft.

"Watching video online can now be a social experience, as people watch videos together, make comments and share reactions."

The service will launch in 20 countries including many European countries, New Zealand, Australia, Singapore, Brazil, Canada and Mexico but not the United States.

[Jeff]

Interesting that the US is one of the countries where this is not available. Being located in the US, is it possible for someone internationally to post some screenshots for us?

[Philip]

Here's a screenshot, Jeff. I tried it and I'm watching Rhianna's concert in Montreal. The link is here.

http://www.bigblueball.com/forums/at...1&d=1210607576

[Jeff]

Thanks Philip. That screenshot shows the website. Do you have a screenshot of the interface in WLM?

[Kudo]

more bloat! :-(

[Jeff]

Originally Posted by Kudo

more bloat! :-(

Not necessarily. It's an optional module. You have to choose to install it; it doesn't come with WLM by default.

[Philip]

Originally Posted by Jeff

Thanks Philip. That screenshot shows the website. Do you have a screenshot of the interface in WLM?

Apologies for the delay, Jeff. Here's a screenshot of Messenger TV in a chat window, and a possible workaround for you all in the US:

1. Add MessengerTV@Live.com to your WLM contact list.
2. In Internet Explorer, go to Tools > Internet Options. In the General tab, click on Languages. Click Add and add English (United Kingdom) and move it to the top of the list.
3. Double-click the MessengerTV contact in WLM to start a conversation. Type any message (a simple how are you? would be fine). It will reply and ask whether you want to start Messenger TV. Click Accept and enjoy!

[patndoris]

Thanks for the workaround Philip! It works just fine here in the US!!

[Gandalf]

Thanks Philip!

[Philip]

No problem, Gandalf and Doris. Enjoy!