I can't believe it. It's good!
Written: Sep 19 '00
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Combines Hotmail, instant messaging, voice chat and free phone calling into one convenient program.
Cons: Can't send multiple files in one transfer session (only one at a time).
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| JamesWong's Full Review: Microsoft MSN Messenger Service |
I've tried out various Instant Messaging programs and currently use three: AOL Instant Messenger (aka "AIM"), ICQ and MSN Messenger. Of these services, I've found MSNs tool to be one of the better programs.
Yes, it's a pain in the butt to have so many messaging programs open at once. But when I have friends who either just use AIM or just use ICQ, it becomes a necessity to maintain communication with them.
Integration is the main advantage of the 'Messenger - it notifies you of new Hotmail messages in your system tray via a tiny pop-up "post it note" which goes away after a few seconds. If you click on the notification, it opens up a new browser session and logs into your Hotmail account for you so you don't have to waste time typing in your login and password (when you logon to the MSN Messenger Service, it's the same info as your Hotmail account - this is achieved through Microsoft's "Passport" service, a sort of "one ID for everything" service). This pop-up post-it also occurs when a friend IM's you and you've minimized the Messenger - their text pops up via the post it, and drops away after a short time. The messaging windows are reminiscent of AIM, so there's nothing really new to report there.
Also included is the ability to make phone calls for free (sponsored by net2phone). I recently picked up a Microsoft Game Voice headset system, and with my DSL connection I've been able to make long distance calls without being charged a cent. The phone dialer is basic - type in the area code and number, and you're on your way to dialing up someone's phone.
I really like the MSN Messenger because it integrates all these services conveniently into one program. ICQ does this but has always seemed somehow 'intimidating' in that it offers too many features that I'll never use. The 'Messenger provides the bare essentials that most of us may ever need.
File transfers are the Messenger's weakness. Unfortunately, the send file option only allows you to send 1 file at a time. ICQ has the edge in this regard: you can select and send multiple files in one session (ICQ also allows you to integrate right-click menus so that if you highlight files, i.e. on your desktop, and right click you can send them to the user quickly).
In my circle of friends, ICQ is the dominant messaging tool. But if you're a Hotmail user you might want to look this free program up.
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
JamesWong
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Location: California
Reviews written: 60
Trusted by: 40 members
About Me:
Video/PC gamer, video editor.
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