LifeCam VX-7000 and LifeCam NX-3000 are two new peripherals from Microsoft set up to bridge the desktop and the notebook computers with the company's cloud operating system. But with the focus placed on Windows Live Messenger, the instant messaging client became an integer part of the Windows Live online suite products and services. Both web cameras follow the natural evolution of the LifeCam line, and in this sense, they are designed to integrate with Microsoft's instant messaging infrastructure, and support best of breed video calls via Windows Live Messenger. And in addition to offering high quality video calls, the cameras can also take high definition pictures which can subsequently be shared via Photo Swap.

"Microsoft Hardware and Windows Live continue to bring the best of hardware, software and services together to create a higher-quality video calling experience for our customers, making it easier to share than ever before," said David Fortin, senior director for Consumer Product Management at Windows Live. "The Photo Swap feature is a perfect illustration of what a video call should be about: keeping in contact with loved ones, sharing memories and having fun."

Both products feature Windows Live Call buttons, delivering a streamlined method to start a video call. Moreover, the Windows Live Messenger window comes with the LifeCam Dashboard built-in, offering quick access to controls such as tilt, pan and zoom. The cameras will be offered to users by the end of September - LifeCam VX-7000 for $99.95 and LifeCam NX-3000 for $59.95.

"At Microsoft, our products are always two steps ahead when it comes to style and design - and our LifeCam line is no exception," said Michael Cowan, product marketing manager for Microsoft Hardware. "With the LifeCam VX-7000 and LifeCam NX-3000 we concentrated on adding high-end finishes and sleek form factors so the webcams would complement our users' computer setup, not detract from it. When you combine the design element with our new sharing capabilities in Windows Live Messenger, these LifeCams are taking the webcam experience to a new level."