The new version of MSN Spaces has officially been launched and renamed "Windows Live Spaces." With the growing popularity of social-networking sites, Microsoft (MSFT) has turned to an ad-supported model to challenge its competitors in this field.
You are able to build a blog or web presence, upload your pictures and grow your networking list.
Jeremy Kirk, writing for PC Advisor reports:
"...users who are already using Microsoft's IM application can start a chat from within Live Spaces. Live Spaces also allows users to add others to their network of friends based on introductions from 'trusted' contacts.
"Microsoft has also implemented controls addressing rising worries concerning minors using social networking sites. Users can control who may contact them through Live Spaces and also who can view their profile and site content.
"By default, the profile of users under 18 years old can only be viewed by people who are in that particular person's IM contacts..."
Microsoft added that they will also be able to add "gadgets" for the purpose of "customizing" or "personalizing" pages.
Implementing an advertising model is a good move for Microsoft, as many of the social-networking sites are still struggling on figuring out the best ways to monetize their communities.
Comment Preview