Live Framework CTP, Services, SDK and Tools Get Killed Off Today

In the second half of August 2009, Microsoft announced an important update to Live Services. At that time, the Redmond-based company noted that the refreshes to the developer services were necessary in order to get ready for the release of Windows Live Wave 4. The update implies changes to the services and controls devs used, and regarded in particular the Live Framework Community technology Preview. Essentially, today, September 8th, Microsoft will kill off Live Framework CTP along with the associated services, software development kit and tools.

“Starting September 8th, 2009, the following services will be unavailable: Live Framework CTP (Services, SDK & Tools) - The Live Framework will be integrated into the next release of Windows Live. Contacts Control (JavaScript) - As an alternative, please use the UI Controls from Messenger Web Toolkit. CTP Tools/ASP.NET Controls (Contacts, MessengerChat, IDLoginStatus, IDLoginView, SilverlightStreaming) - As alternatives use: the UI Controls from Messenger Web Toolkit for Contacts and Messenger Chat; the Windows Live ID Web Authentication Service to replace the IDLoginStatus Control,” revealed Mike Finley, Microsoft Consultant.

In addition to the Live Framework CTP, the Redmond-based company will also shut down the Bing ASP.NET Map Control CTP (formerly labeled the Virtual Earth ASP.NET Map Control CTP). Microsoft has already informed developers that were leveraging the resources scheduled for shut down on September 8th, to make sure that all their data and codebase or solutions running in the Live Framework CTP be saved on a local hard-drive.

Specifically, devs will no longer be able to build Live Framework-enabled web sites or Mesh-enabled web applications starting today. At the same time, the services and resources that will become unavailable will make it impossible to edit settings associated with web sites and pages taking advantage of Live Mesh, or the Live Framework.

“This is an exciting journey for all of us and your commitment and feedback helps us build the best possible offerings for our customers and for you. Our commitment to the great developer community is stronger than ever, and we are looking forward hearing more of your feedback in the future,” David Treadwell, corporate vice president, Live Platform Services noted at the time.