14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft is hard at work to streamline the integration of its instant messaging client into third-party websites. In this context, the Redmond company is looking to make it as easy as possible for developers to build Windows Live messenger functionality into their content. The first step for the software giant was the release of the Windows Live Messenger Web Toolkit. The Toolkit went live at the company's web-centric MIX09 conference in March of this year in Las Vegas. In addition to the toolkit, developers can now also leverage the Messenger Web Toolkit Interactive SDK, in order to get familiarized with the Windows Live Messenger UI Controls.
“With the release of the Messenger Web Toolkit we are providing a new Interactive SDK. This should be one of the first places developers go when starting out with the Messenger Web Toolkit,” revealed Terry Lentz, lead software test engineer, Messenger Web Platform.
With the Messenger Web Toolkit Microsoft is providing third-party developers with the necessary resources to boost the social networking capabilities of their websites. The invitation from the Redmond company is to rely on instant messaging in order to help visitors communicate among themselves and with their Windows Live Messenger friends, even though the IM client is not installed on the machine.
“Using the Interactive SDK, developers can: walk through the steps required for adding the Messenger Web Toolkit to their site(s); preview controls and experiment by customizing attributes in real-time; generate per-control markup that can easily be copied/pasted; [and] find links to MSDN documentation for each control and get a sense of how controls are used,” Lentz added.
One important aspect related to the Messenger Web Toolkit is that Microsoft is focused on continually evolving the resources that will permit website owners to grab more users, keep them engaged and drive website loyalty. However, in this regard, the company needs feedback on its actions. The Windows Live Messenger Web Toolkit Interactive SDK webpage does feature a Feedback link in the bottom right hand side corner, and Microsoft is ready to listen to what you have to say.
Windows Live Messenger 9.0 (2009) is available for download via this link.