One of the most frequently asked questions following the Windows Live launch on Tuesday has been: "What happens to MSN?" Microsoft executives were quick to reassure that the online brand will survive. But with Messenger, Search, Mail and more becoming Windows Live services, what’s left for MSN? The answer isn’t yet clear and will likely only come into focus once Microsoft’s next-generation products begin rolling out next year.
What is known is that most existing MSN services will get the new Windows Live moniker. The changes follow Microsoft’s September reorganization that combined the MSN group with the Windows division. MSN Search will become Windows Live Search, while version 8 of MSN Messenger will be named Windows Live Messenger. Current Hotmail users will be offered a "seamless upgrade" to the AJAX-enabled Windows Live Mail that functions more like a desktop e-mail client.
OneCare, Security Center and a Web-based favorites management service will all become Windows Live products, which center around the new Live.com "starting point."
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