MSN IM beta hits 2 million downloads
C|Net | at | by Mike
Microsoft is keeping mum about the next version of its instant-messaging service, but 2 million copies of its "private" beta have already been downloaded, according to a company memo obtained by CNET News.com. Details of MSN Messenger version 6 surfaced a month ago when Microsoft posted images of the software and a list of features on its Web site. Version 6 incorporates more interactive perks into the message window, such as a Webcam, real-time games, audio chat and custom "emoticons."
The memo, penned by Blake Irving, vice president of MSN's communications division, is a flowery account of the software's private test efforts to date. Calling it "totally addictive" and citing his 14-year-old sister-in-law as one surprise beta tester, Irving heralded the product's viral appeal. "We have seen unprecedented global consumer enthusiasm for this version," Irving wrote.