Microsoft Launches Enhanced Mac Instant Messaging

Messenger for Mac 5.0 (www.microsoft.com/mac) introduces tabbed viewing, a new approach for Mac customers who use instant messaging for work and for play. Users may simultaneously access corporate and personal Messenger accounts and set a unique user status on each.

The personal tab allows users to instant message (IM) with friends and family, while support for Microsoft Office Live Communications Server 2005 enables enterprise customers to IM in a security-enhanced manner via the corporate tab with colleagues inside and out the network.

“Methods of communication and collaboration in the workplace have changed drastically in the last few years — particularly with IM becoming a common means of interoffice communication,” said Van Baker, vice president and research director for Gartner.

Messenger for Mac 5.0 takes advantage of integration with Microsoft’s enterprise IM solutions. Messenger for Mac 5.0 can be deployed with Live Communications Server 2005 to help improve collaboration for corporate Mac users by streamlining communication and allowing for enhanced messaging security.

Corporate messaging sessions run through Live Communications Server 2005 are contained within the corporate firewall and server-side session logging is enabled. Corporate customers can also deploy the Live Communications Server 2005 Public IM Connectivity license, enabling their Mac users to IM with contacts outside the network who use services from AOL, MSN® and Yahoo! Live Communications Server 2005 support also introduces integration with the Global Address List, allowing corporate Mac users to locate contact information and availability status more efficiently than before.

To better serve Mac customers, Messenger for Mac 5.0 has an updated design that features a Mac OS®-like brushed-metal look and feel in addition to a refined Preferences pane. Version 5.0 also includes new features that allow customers to develop their online personalities with customizable display pictures and the ability to view animated and custom emoticons.

“The latest version of Messenger for Mac is ideal for both office and personal communication,” said Scott Erickson, director of product management and marketing for the Mac BU at Microsoft.