Microsoft has placed customer input at the top of the list of the features selection process for the next versions of Windows Live Messenger. And as such, the Live messenger users are invited to contribute to the evolution of the Microsoft instant messaging client. For this, a thread in the Windows Live Messenger newsgroup has been set up to catalyze discussions and voting on the ideas for 9.0, 10.0 and beyond.

"Please note that this is not a guarantee that these features will be worked on, but it's important for us to know your thoughts. Feature selection for Messenger takes into account many, many factors including customer input, business needs, available resources and level of effort estimates. It's a complicated process but one we know will ultimately produce the best possible Messenger we can build," informed Microsoft.

However, the Redmond Company has emphasized the importance it places on customer feedback as the product is ultimately dedicated to them. The Windows Live Messenger team has already made available a dozen of examples illustrating features that might find their way into the next versions of the IM client.

Windows live Messenger users have asked to have the possibility of customizing contact/group unique behaviors. In this aspect, each contact or group will have specific sound labels on sign in and on sign out. Another possible feature that is popular is support for multiple accounts simultaneously.

Users have additionally proposed the introduction of a default spelling and grammar checker and tabbed chatting. Forthcoming releases of Windows Live Messenger might have automated update management, personalized users status according to group, animated and custom avatars etc.