Microsoft Talks Up Windows Live Messenger

Microsoft has taken the "beta" disclaimer off Windows Live Messenger, launching the service with an exclusive "Pirates of the Caribbean" game.

Scarcely a month after rolling out a beta release, Microsoft has officially launched Windows Live Messenger, and aims to loot some interest from consumers by rolling in an exclusive game based on the Disney Pirates of the Caribbean film series. Windows Live Messenger: Arr, matey!

Windows Live Messenger (ahem) aims to go a few steps beyond what we’ve all come to think of as instant messaging by rolling in free PC-to-PC calling and inexpensive PC-to-phone calling around the world (a laSkype), as well as provide users easy ways to share photos, files, video, and more. Microsoft Live Messenger is also designed to operate seamlessly with cordless phones developed by companies like Uniden, Philips, and Motorola