Verizon Business has teamed with Microsoft Corp to enable one-click Web calling to virtually any number worldwide, as part of the new Windows Live Messenger service, launched to the general public this week.
Using the Windows Live Call feature, users purchase minutes through Verizon Web Calling and can start making affordable, outbound local voice calls and domestic or international long-distance voice calls over the Internet. The service is now available in localised languages and currencies to Messenger customers in Austria, Belgium, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, the United Kingdom and the United States.
The next generation of MSN Messenger, the world`s most widely used instant messaging service, Windows Live Messenger goes beyond text instant-messaging to connect people with voice, video and more. It also acts as a window to the Internet, connecting people to their e-mail, blogs, search functions and other Windows Live services.
"We`re delighted to be able to team with Microsoft to power PC to telephone calling for Messenger customers," said Henrik Liungman, director, Verizon Business. "Now Messenger users have quick, simple access through the Windows Live Messenger toolbar to high quality PC-to-phone voice calling as a benefit of using Verizon Business`s expansive global network and extensive voice over Internet Protocol (VOIP) technology."
"Windows Live Messenger enables us to put consumers firmly in control of their communications experience," said Geoff Sutton, regional general manager, Windows Live and MSN at Microsoft. "We have received great feedback from our customers during the beta period and are excited to take the benefits of Windows Live Messenger out to a broader public audience."
Detailed information about the service, including ordering, availability and pricing, can be found at www.messenger.live.com.
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UUNET SA is now trading as Verizon Business (SA). For more information, visit www.verizonbusiness.com/za.
Verizon Business
Verizon Business, a unit of Verizon Communications (NYSE: VZ), is a leading provider of advanced communications and information technology (IT) solutions to large business and government customers worldwide. Combining unsurpassed global network reach with advanced technology and professional service capabilities, Verizon Business delivers innovative and seamless business solutions to customers around the world.
For more information, visit www.verizonbusiness.com.
MSN and Windows Live
MSN attracts more than 465 million unique users worldwide per month. With localised versions available globally in 42 markets and 21 languages, MSN is a world leader in delivering compelling programmed content experiences to consumers and online advertising opportunities to businesses worldwide. Windows Live, a new set of personal Internet services and software, is designed to bring together in one place all the relationships, information and interests people care about most, with enhanced safety and security features across their PC, devices and the Web. MSN and Windows Live will be offered alongside each other as complementary services. Some Windows Live services entered an early beta phase on 1 November 2005; these and future beta updates can be found at http://ideas.live.com. MSN is located on the Web at http://www.msn.com. MSN worldwide sites are located at http://www.msn.com/worldwide.ashx.
Microsoft
Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq "MSFT") is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realise their full potential.
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