Microsoft Upgrades Windows Live Mail

Although it has still yet to replace the aging Hotmail system, Microsoft's new, AJAX-enabled Windows Live Mail service received a minor upgrade yesterday, reaching Milestone 9. The M9 version of Live Mail brings a number of new features, including full compatibility with Firefox 2.0.

Unlike previous builds, as of M9 Microsoft is leaving the "Classic" interface for users migrating from Hotmail. The company doesn't want to scare users away with fancy new features, although such a decision could mean the far majority never see the AJAX interface. Other changes include a new Today page that mirrors the one in Windows Live Messenger, new icons, improved right-click menus and an updated search bar.