It's been quite a while since I last used an instant messaging application of any sort. I installed Google Talk, but I didn't know anyone using it so I haven't tried it.

I'm trying out Windows Live Messenger now. It's quite a dramatic change from previous versions of MSN Messenger (and others). More clean lines than in the past, with fewer distractions. Large 'bold' advertisements which don't fit well with the style of the application.

An option for a 'video carousel'

You can see how the videos match with my interests. Not.

There's a file syncronization option that I gather is new -- allowing users to share files/folders with other users and keep them synchronized automatically. I haven't had a chance to try it and can't think of any reason for me to use it normally.

Although I like the style of the application, it lacks personality, something older versions of the software had too much of. The color at the top of the application is configurable:

I've got a limited number of invities to the program if you're interested. Contact me using e-mail in About if you're interested. No promises.

More information about Windows Live Messenger on the team's blog.

Please no comments requesting invites. I'll ignore/delete those.