Microsoft To Expand Xbox Social Reach By Folding In Windows Live Messenger

Instant messaging continues to be one of the major pluses for portals as they expand social networking. Where new social nets have to create their own, AOL, Yahoo and Microsoft already have that tool in their belts and they’re looking for every way possible to make it even more effective. The latest example: Microsoft’s decision to add Windows Live Messenger to Xbox 360 and its current text and chat features. The company said Windows Live Messenger has more than 260 million active accounts. As of May 7, the six-million-plus Xbox 360 users will be able to use WLM to chat with up to six contacts at a time. Release.
— Among other changes, the same update should make it easier for users to see what games their friends are playing and to perform downloads. They’ll also be able to stream WM-DRM content from the PC to the console.

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