(22 August 2007 5:30 pm)

MUMBAI: In a deal that is indicative of Microsoft's plans to build a business around letting other sites incorporate its Windows Live Web Services, the software giant has tied up with social-networking site Bebo Inc. wherein it will launch a Microsoft-powered instant-messaging program.

The Bebo-branded IM will have limited compatibility with Microsoft's own services. Bebo members will be able to click a link to start an IM session with any other Bebo member, even if neither has a Windows Live ID, the sign-on used for Hotmail and other Microsoft services.

Currently Microsoft's web services are being used by Match.com and MSNBC, but the software maker said it is seeking out more social networking customers.

Users will be able to exchange messages with Bebo friends who aren't logged on, but who are using Microsoft's regular Windows Live Messenger program.

However, Bebo users will not be able to send instant messages to Windows Live Messenger users who don't have Bebo accounts, and Windows Live Messenger users won't be able to see if their buddies are logged on to Bebo.

However, Bebo said it will provide a way for its users to get a Windows Live ID; Microsoft said it will not promote Bebo to its own users.

The social networking site also plans to incorporate Microsoft's address book management tools. The looks for the new features are still being worked out, Bebo said. The two companies declined to discuss financial terms of the deal.

According to Bebo international business president Joanna Shields, San Francisco-based Bebo trails News Corp.'s MySpace and Facebook in usage, but it is particularly strong in Europe, where the company plans to expand to six new countries including France and Germany.