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Web-based access for MSN Messenger has moved out of test mode.
Microsoft Corp.s MSN division launched Web Messenger on Thursday, a move that puts its instant messaging service on par with leading competitors America Online Inc. and Yahoo Inc. when it comes to letting users chat without using a desktop client.
MSN Web Messenger, available as a beta in a limited number of markets since August, lets MSN Messenger members use the service through a Web browser. It is now live in 25 markets, including the United States.
“A lot of customers use computers where they cant get access to the client,” said Brooke Richardson, lead product manager at MSN. “The goal with this is to enable people to get easy access to their Messenger contacts and the service.”
MSN Web Messenger supports multiple Web browsers for Windows: Internet Explorer 5.0 or later, Netscape 7.1 or later, or Mozilla 1.6 or later.
AOL Instant Messenger and Yahoo Messenger have offered Web-based access to their IM services for years.