Microsoft has launched the updated version of its MSN Spaces blogging software, Live Spaces, which it says allows users to connect with their friends online in real time.

The updated software enables users to customise their blogging Spaces with blogs, photo albums, music lists and so on, Microsoft says.

Users can connect to their friends - those on their Windows Live contact list, across the messenger and email services. New contacts can be added through these existing trusted contacts, the company says.

Microsoft adds to balance the expansion of the networking capabilities, it has also beefed up security and safety options. Users will have total control over who can and cannot contact them through the service, access their profile information, and so on.

For under 18s, for instance, the default setting is that only trusted contacts may get in touch or view the information.

The software giant also announced the forthcoming launch of the Windows Live Tool Bar, and Windows Live Q&A beta. ®