Microsoft Corp has announced plans to extend its MSN Messenger service – the AOL Instant Messenger killer – to the Windows CE operating system, the WebTV network and the Macintosh platform. It’s all part of Microsoft’s master plan to deliver communication any time, anywhere on any device. Instant messaging will also be made available on cellular phones, through MSN Mobile Services. Microsoft says this announcement demonstrates its ongoing commitment to work with the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) on the development and adoption of a single instant messaging standard. But the company is quick to add that its priority is to provide all consumers with the ability to freely and openly communicate over the internet. If it comes down to a battle between Microsoft and the IETF, don’t be surprised if Microsoft defends its battle lines as the greater consumer interest.
