Windows Messenger gains custom handsets

A public beta of the instant messaging, voice and video calling software is now available

Microsoft has sent the successor to MSN Messenger into public beta testing, providing a showcase to all for the instant messaging, voice and video calling software.

Now called Windows Live Messenger in line with Microsoft’s broad rebranding of online services, the software now also works with cordless phones made specially for the program. Microsoft said Philips and Uniden are releasing handsets that support landline and internet telephony under the Windows Live Call function.

The release is the first that users apart from special invitees will have to try out the new Messenger user interface.

Separately, Microsoft has released a beta of Speech Server 2007 for developing voice-response and touch-tone applications. The release includes grammar checking and aids for conversational understanding. Developers can apply to be added to the beta-testing user list.