Is this for real? Some Windows Live IM users (formerly MSN Instant Messenger) are reporting an unusual notice from Microsoft, here. This is a bona fide message. Even after checking the domain site, I’m not sure if this is real, as some folks have said this message is a fraud.
The message makesone believe that the old email handle “hotmail” is being antiquated and the new handle, “live.com” is being adopted.
Microsoft Office Live Communications Server 2005 SP1 with public instant messaging (IM) connectivity enables IM capabilities between the Windows Live Messenger Service and corporate instant messaging systems. Messenger users can now IM the Messenger users they IM with today, as well as users of a connected IM system. As part of this service enhancement, you must now change the ID you are using for signing into Messenger in order to continue using this service.
Please proceed with changing your sign-in ID if you received:
An instant message from the Windows Live Messenger Service Staff
An error message when signing in to Messenger
Information that your company has just started using Microsoft Office Live Communications Server 2005
:: What will happen if I change my old sign-in ID to the new sign-in ID?
Once you change your old sign-in ID to a new sign-in ID, you will see a confirmation page. You’ll have to wait up to one hour for your Messenger contacts to be transferred. Once you’ve changed your sign-in ID, you’ll be able to sign in to Windows Live Messenger and any other or Windows Live enabled site, just like before. This new sign-in ID is for or Windows Live sign-in only.
:: If I change my old sign-in ID, will I need to tell all my contacts that my instant message name has changed?
No. Windows Live Messenger Service will take care of updating everyone’s contact lists with your new sign-in ID. Changing your sign-in ID will not change your Messenger display name, so if you use a friendly name, you’ll appear the same to your contacts. It may take up to one hour for the system to update your contacts. During this time, you may appear offline. In some instances, a user that has you as a contact may have to sign off and back in to see the change in your profile. Your new sign-in ID is for the Windows Live™ ID or Windows Live sign-in only.
:: If I change my old sign-in ID that has a Hotmail or Mail e-mail account, will all my e-mails and contacts be lost?
No. All of your old e-mails and contacts will be associated to your new sign-in ID and associated e-mail address. However, you do need to inform your contacts to send e-mails to your new e-mail address.
Looks like everything will work just as it always has (Contacts List, etc), but the sign in ID will change. I’d like to hear more about this from you guys– do you know if this is real? Where is this coming from?
Update: there’s a big discussion going on about it here and here.
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However, I am tired of MSN’s IM program. I’d really rather not use a third-party IM at all. But I have had a terrible time finding a quality LAN chat. I’ve tried Tonic, and few other free kinds, but there’s always something missing or something wrong with them. I don’t want all the bells and whistles that comes with the third-party software, like Yahoo, AIM, Trillium, and ICQ. I JUST want a simple LAN chat. Why are they so hard to find? If you know of one, please leave a comment. Thanks! 
