There is a veritable fiesta of Windows Live Messenger release under the next generation of Windows Live brand umbrella. First off Microsoft just introduced the final version of Windows Live Messenger 8.5, its variant of the instant messenger client tailor fitted on the Windows Aero graphical user interface of Windows Vista, initially introduced in May 2007. Now the Redmond company is upping the stakes through the delivery of the Windows Live Messenger IM Control and Presence application programming interface. Via the IM control, users will be able to incorporate the instant messaging client into the fabric of their website permitting visitors to access them directly and effortlessly.

"The Windows Live Messenger IM Control lets people on the Web reach you in Messenger by showing your Messenger status on your web site, blog, or social networking profile. The Windows Live Messenger IM Control runs in the browser and lets site visitors message you without installing Messenger first. The IM Control is supported in IE6, IE7, and Firefox 2.0 on Windows and Firefox 2.0 on Mac OS. The IM Control is supported in 32 languages. The new Windows Live Messenger IM Control allows people to send you IMs without installing Windows Live Messenger, and the IM button requires that they have it installed and are logged in," explained a Program Manager on the Windows Live Messenger Server team.

In order to integrate the Windows Live Messenger IM control into your website so that visitors can view your status online, all you have to do is access this link and follow the instructions presented. In the end you will be presented with a piece of HTML generated code designed to be included in your website. "With this, as a Live Messenger user, you can receive IM's from people that visit your website which is a great way for people and businesses to get in contact. This won't be for everyone - and don't worry people can't find out your Live ID, nor can bots start spamming your IM account - we've taken care of all that stuff," stated James Senior, Microsoft Partner Technical Specialist.