Microsoft to test new Messenger

Microsoft has started limited testing of Windows Live Messenger, an update that expands the consumer instant messaging software into areas such as Internet phone calls.

The revamp is essentially an expansion of MSN Messenger. It adds a number of features and continues the program’s migration from a place to share short text messages into a manager for any number of modes of communication.

Various enthusiast sites, including Mess.be and BetaNews, reported that a private beta of Live Messenger is imminent, while another fan site, Messenger Blog, offered purported screenshots of the new software. Microsoft initially declined to comment on Monday, but the company had promised a beta version would come this month.

Microsoft showed a preview of the instant messaging program at its Live services kickoff early last month.

Read full article: CNET News.com