By Suzanna Kerridge, 4 June 2001 16:50
NEWS Talks between Microsoft and AOL might be faltering, but that hasn't stopped the software giant from pressing ahead with plans to release its beta version of Microsoft Messenger this week. Windows Messenger 4 is being hailed by analysts and industry observers as a rival to AOL's instant messaging service. Taking a swipe at AOL, Microsoft has included support of session initiation protocol, which opens the technology up to developers and service providers enabling non-MSN and MSN users to chat. AOL refuses to make its messaging software available to others by supporting this standard and continues to only allow AOL members to chat. The software will replace MSN Messenger when it is finally released as a bundle with Windows XP. It will also add .NET functionality such as contact notification, file and application sharing and Windows XP Remote assistance. Microsoft's Bill Gates and AOL Time Warner's Steve Case feature in silicon.com's Agenda Setters 2001. To find out more, visit http://www.silicon.com/as2001
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