Microsoft has made available a new beta version of its instant messaging application. Windows Live Messenger 8.0.0689 builds on Microsoft’s “Live” initiative and features Windows Live Call. Windows Live Call is a new VoIP service that allows Messenger users to phone each other for free. The Windows Live Call service will be provided by Verizon and will be offered in the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, France and Spain. The service will expand to Austria, Belgium, Finland, Ireland, Italy and the Netherlands beginning next week.
It’s surprising that it took this long for Microsoft to finally dip their mitts into the VOIP side of things. This looks promising though; the handsets look great. Check out the full posting at DailyTech.