Microsoft have launched a beta of the new MSN Messenger, which offers some nice new features, and integration with MSN Spaces.

It has an improved user interface, now displaying the user’s image next to their screen name [see image below]. When beginning a new conversation with a user, the end of the last conversation is displayed in the window. Another nice touch is displaying user’s images in the small notification window that pops up when users sign in. However, these last two features have been available in Trillian Pro for some time now

As well as the above, MSN Messenger 7.0 also has some nice new emoticons, and plugs in directly to BlueMountain where new emoticons and backgrounds can be purchased for as little as £1.00

Microsoft have also added an MSN search box above the advertising banner, which has resulted in me using it a little more. However, I still find Google returns more relevant search results, making my preferred tool the Google Toolbar.

Patchou has also released a beta of the new Messenger Plus! 3.25 add-on for MSN Messenger 7.0. If you’re not already using this, get it now. One of the most helpful features I find is the facility to rename contacts.

The only thing I dislike is the way contact statuses are now displayed. It’s no longer [as] clear whether a contact is online, busy, away, blocked, etc – though I think I might get used to the updated icons over time.

Finally, some screenshots