MSN 8.5 Set for Beta Testing

As it strives to upset AOL's market dominance, Microsoft is readying an update to its MSN Internet Service with Explorer version 8.5. MSN 8.5 serves as an interim release on the road to MSN 9, a major update that will square off with AOL 9.0 as both companies shift their focus to broadband subscribers.

Microsoft recently sent customers an invitation to join the MSN 8.5 beta program, although gave no specific details as to new features or changes.

"We're excited to announce our new MSN Beta program and would like to extend this invitation to you, one of our valued MSN Internet Service members, to be a potential beta participant. The feedback from beta participants is extremely valuable in helping us define the features for future releases of MSN products and services," the e-mail invite read. "This particular beta program is for the next release of MSN 8 Internet Services."

MSN subscribers can apply to test MSN Explorer 8.5 by singing into BetaPlace using the Guest ID MSN85Beta and filling out a short nomination survey. Eligible testers will be contacted by Microsoft within three to four weeks.