Well, just as it seems like Microsoft brought out Windows Live Messenger 8.1, they bring out the next beta. Messenger beta 8.5. The only noticeable change that I've come across so far is the UI. Microsoft have jazzed it up to match the Windows Vista interface - and jumbled about with some buttons on the conversation windows. The new interface may be good for users that want their desktop to look like Windows Vista, but to be honest when you have Windows Vista, it looks crap. I mean look at it. They could have at least made the effort to incorporate Aero into it, I thought Microsoft were focusing on interface now?

I really do hope to see Aero incorporated into Windows Live Messenger, and not have it hiding behind crappy skins. I actually would be happier if they just shoved the conversation window contents into a normal Windows Vista window, like the one below. That way you would have the proper Aero effects and shadow, not just the crappy one that you can turn on in the Windows Live Messenger options menu. Making a separate version for vista ain't that hard - is it?

I thought it was a bit cheeky of Microsoft not including Windows Live Messenger with Vista in the first place, just a download link. I expected a brand-spanking new interface that knocked the socks off Windows XP's "Windows Messenger", but that would be ridiculous.

I'm not saying the new interface in Windows Live Messenger is worse that in messenger 8.1, but It could be much, much better given the potential of the Windows Aero interface.