REDMOND, Wash., Aug. 18, 1999 — Reinforcing its commitment to fostering free and open communication for all instant messaging service users, Microsoft today announced plans to publish the protocol for its own MSN Messenger Service, the free Internet messaging service that allows people to instantly communicate across the Internet with the greatest number of users.
Publishing the MSN Messenger protocol allows all instant messaging users, no matter which service they may use, to communicate quickly and seamlessly. Additionally, Microsoft announced that more than 1.3 million individuals have signed up for MSN Messenger Service since its launch just last month.
“Our goal is to help people enjoy the benefits of free and open communication on the Internet, and we are thrilled that this is resonating with so many consumers,” said Brad Chase, senior vice president, Microsoft, Consumer & Commerce Group. “Since 1997 Microsoft has been actively working with the industry on open standards for interoperability among messaging systems and documenting our protocol is a significant step in this direction.”
