The new Windows Live Messenger app is
available for download in the iTunes App Store. It's compatible with the iPhone,iPod touch and the iPad and just like the version for your PC, it's free.
There's a heap of questions to be answered. Such as:
Can I use it to access my Hotmail?
Does it work with Facebook?
Can I share photos, links and emoticons with my friends?
The short answer to all these questions is "yes".
Here's a quick outline of the features on offer. We say "quick" because if you're anything like us, you'll want to download and discover the ins and outs of the app all by yourself (that's half the fun right?). But before you do, here's some of what to expect.
Instant message with multiple friends
First and foremost, the new app allows you to IM multiple friends, from your iPhone no matter where you are. Use it to view chat history, animate your conversations with emoticons or nudges and share links with mates when you find something cool on the Web. It's the best bits of an IM conversation all accessible from your hip pocket.
Get social updates from within Messenger
When you use the app for the first time you'll notice a "social" tab down the bottom of your iPhone screen. This is where you'll go to keep updated with what your Messenger friends are doing around the Web. So when you or your friends decide to share content from other social networks (such as
Facebook,
MySpace,
Flickr and more) you'll still be informed. Think photos, status updates and comments from friends — whatever it is, you'll know about it.
Share photos and all your other stuff
The new mobile Messenger allows you to create photo albums, add captions and allow contacts to comment on your photos when you share photos to your contacts via IM.
If you have photos already stored in your SkyDrive it's quick and easy to share them with your Messenger friends too. Alternatively, take a quick shot from your phone and share it right there and then. When you're done — create a new album in your SkyDrive so you don't clog up your phone's memory.
You can also access your Hotmail account without ever leaving the app to read and reply to your e-mails. Couple this with the new tool that allows you to get notifications when you get a new IM or e-mail and you will be connected with those that matter at all times.
There's a heap more you can do with the new app and we'll be rolling out some handy how-to guides over the coming months in our mobile section. So make sure you check-in with Windows Live to get the latest on what's new, in the mean time hop onto iTunes and grab the free Messenger app so you can stay connected on the go.
Home