Microsoft has revealed details of a new version of its Messenger chat application, along with the launch of Messenger Connect, which is aimed at web developers looking to create applications for partner sites.

The company said in a blog post that the releases include tighter integration with social networking sites and better quality video.

The next version of Messenger will be released as an open beta this summer, and offers three principal improvements.

"Hundreds of millions of people use Messenger every day, and we heard loud and clear that they wanted to do more in their conversations," said Piero Sierra and Jeff Kunins, group program managers for Windows Live Messenger and Social at Microsoft, in a blog post.

"We focused on improving the personal interactions with your close friends, so that you can continue to connect in even richer ways with the people you care about most."

Full story: V3.co.uk