WebProNews

The Redmond based software monolith, Microsoft, announced they are expanding their MAC instant messaging software. The new tab viewing display will allow users to access both corporate and personal Messenger accounts and set a unique status for each user.

Family and friends can come through with normal messaging and simultaneously, users will be able to utilize the enterprise functions in the Live Communications Server. This will be a useful tool in for Mac multitasking.

"Methods of communication and collaboration in the workplace have changed drastically in the last few years -- particularly with IM becoming a common means of interoffice communication," said Van Baker, vice president and research director for Gartner. "An enterprise solution is needed to provide a true office collaboration tool rather than the typical 'buddy' IM we have seen in the past."

The new Messenger will also receive some cosmetic changes as well as the ability to customize displays and view animated emoticons. The Messenger is available in English, Dutch, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Spanish and Swedish beginning on Aug. 9.

"The latest version of Messenger for Mac is ideal for both office and personal communication," said Scott Erickson, director of product management and marketing for the Mac BU at Microsoft. "Our customers told us they needed a business tool to enable corporate messaging, so these requests were a primary driver in the development of the new version. Messenger for Mac 5.0 allows for greater collaboration in corporate environments and yet still presents a fun way to chat with friends and family."

John Stith is a staff writer for WebProNews covering technology and business.