Windows Live Messenger fans will be excited to hear that the forthcoming Vista optimised version of the chat tool has already been leaked onto the internet. An internal build of Windows Live Messenger 8.5 has been unearthed by Spanish fansite Messenger Addictos.
The unofficial version is in Spanish although you can convert it to English by copying the old language file (msglang.dll) over the new one (msglang.8.5.1235.0517.dll). The installation directory has also been changed to a dedicated ‘Windows Live’ folder i.e. C:\Program Files\Windows Live\Messenger.
As with most Live Messenger releases, this one features a revamped interface which has been optimised for Vista. It also features a completely new installer program. According to mess.be (which carries the rather original tagline ‘Don’t Mess With B.A Baracus – Mess With MSN Messenger’), the new version also features something called ‘Windows Live Folders’ in the ‘Sharing Folders’ window. This means that you can upload folders from your PC to Messenger to either share publicly or personal use.
This move suggests that this release of Messenger is Microsoft’s attempt to take it into Web 2.0 territory by allowing people to access their personal folders online. The change to a Windows Live installation folder also suggests that Microsoft intend to consolidate the ‘Windows Live’ brand. Note that you should scan these files for viruses before installing them and that messenger plug-ins or Messenger Plus! do not work with this unofficial version. If you don’t feel safe doing this, you can participate in the official beta testing (if you get selected) by signing-up at the Microsoft Connect website.
Update: Windows Live Messenger is now available in public Beta form! (thanks, dwergs)
