MS preps voice over WinXP

Microsoft has hired Callserve to deliver the IP telephony service offered by Messenger in Windows XP for the European market, as well as other regions.

Messenger allows users to make phone calls directly from their PCs to a normal landline phone anywhere in the world, much like the wide variety of online VOIP providers already on offer. Typically, calls are cheaper than regular landline calls, but the quality is also worse.

Users who install Windows XP and click on the 'Make a Phone Call' option are directed to a referral service. Here they choose a provider which covers their region, download an update and sign up for the service, similar to the standard Internet service provider referrals that ships with Windows.

Alongside London-based Callserve, MS announced partnerships with deltathree, Dialpad communications, Net2Phone and Telus. These companies will be responsible for maintaining the account relationship with anyone who signs up for the service. Customers can track their account balances through Messenger.

The programme is not exclusive to Callserve and Microsoft plans to add to the list of available providers around the globe. More details on how the referral programme works can be found here, while more on Messenger can be read here. ®