Microsoft Messenger provides real-time collaboration between people in different locations. You can use instant messaging and audio / video calls to communicate with any of your contacts.

You can sign in to Messenger for Mac 8.0.1 by using a Windows Live ID. Windows Live IDs include all e-mail accounts ending in "@live.com", "@hotmail.com", "@msn.com" and other accounts registered with Windows Live.

Microsoft Messenger for Mac can connect to the following networks and messaging services:
· To use the personal service, a Windows Live ID, such as a Windows Live Hotmail account, is required. Personal account users can communicate with other contacts who use the Windows Live and Yahoo! messaging services.
· To use the corporate service, an account on Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 is required. Corporate account users can communicate with other contacts on a corporate network or on federated networks, and with contacts who use the Windows Live, Yahoo!, and AOL messaging services.

Here are some key features of "Microsoft Messenger":

Make video calls:
· Using your Windows Live ID, you can make video or audio calls to communicate with your contacts. Now you can participate in face-to-face meetings with co-workers in other cities, countries, or on Windows PCs using audio and video conferencing.

Share with Office Integration:
· Messenger is integrated with Office 2011 applications like Outlook, Word and PowerPoint. See presence information for your contacts in Outlook using the new presence card. Messenger is also integrated into the new co-authoring experience with Word, PowerPoint and SkyDrive.

Be Findable:
· Thanks for Mac OS X Bonjour instant networking technology, people will be able to see if you’re on the local network. Presence enhancements in Messenger for Mac 8 include the ability to add a personal message to your contact information, so co-workers will know more about when you’re available to chat.

File and Photo Sharing:
· Messenger for Mac enables you to share, view and comment on photos and documents with a friend, or multiple friends, in real time.

Requirements:

· Internet connection through either an Internet service provider (ISP) or a network. Internet access might require a fee to an ISP; local or long-distance telephone charges might also apply.
· Windows Live ID

What's New in This Release: [ read full changelog ]

· Introduces the much anticipated audio/video feature for personal users with a Windows Live account.
· You can now use your personal account for face-to-face interactions with family, friends, and coworkers by using Messenger for Mac or Windows Live Messenger.