Microsoft plans to release around half of the 20 Windows Live Services it has in beta testing by the middle of the year, says Joost Nienhuis, Microsoft's regional MD for Europe, Middle East and Africa.
"Although we are entering the unknown, a lot of positive and exciting things are happening in the Web-based services arena. This is being driven by technology advances and lower computing costs, as well as market demands for collaboration and social networking tools," Nienhus told journalists in Bryanston yesterday.
Nienhuis and regional consumer marketing manager Brian Kealy are in SA to promote Windows Live Spaces, which is the latest of the Windows Live Services to be released in SA. Other localised Windows Live Services include Live Search, Live.com, Live Messenger and Live Mail.
"Windows Live Services is a suite of services that covers all the main requirements for communicating, building relationships and finding information using any computer with an Internet connection," says Kealy. "It's about being informed, connected and protected," he adds.
Kealy concedes that a broadband connection is necessary to get the most out of Windows Live Services, but says Live Spaces has already proven popular with local users despite limited access to broadband. He says since the beta programme was introduced late last year, 55 000 local users have already subscribed.
"Live Spaces is a free service that enables users to create an online presence easily, and yet remain safe by choosing the level of exposure they are comfortable with," says Kealy. He points out that users can limit access to their online content to specific groups or even individuals.
The service also provides free storage for 500 photographs a month, as well as facilities for blogging, searching for contacts with similar interests, and quick transfer of information online using shared folders.
Although hoping to woo users by adding new and improved functionality, Microsoft is also emphasising the benefits of Web services designed to work together. All services use a single, common contact list, for example.
Nienhuis likens Live Services to the Windows operating system, saying it aims to provide the same integrated experience on the Internet. Kealy adds that integration is what will give Microsoft the competitive-edge. "Windows Live Services work together in a way that no other online services do," he claims.
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