Microsoft starts Live Messenger Beta

Microsoft has started beta testing of Windows Live Messenger, which will succeed MSN Messenger as the company's primary communications client for consumers. Microsoft has send invitations to a handful of testers, who can invite their friends later.

Beta versions of Windows Live Messenger have already begun surfacing on the Web, but Microsoft has learned from past leaks and is restricting login access to those who are registered for the program. Later this month, the beta will expand as users are permitted to invite others.