Microsoft has plans to launch a real time web conferencing communications software application, in a move that is aimed at the growing demand by companies for their employees to work together from their desk. The new application will be called Microsoft Office Communication (original name, don't you think!) and can of course track whether users are online or available for a meeting, but can also reroute incoming messages to phones and instant messaging programs. Think of the software as Windows Messenger on steroids.

Meanwhile, Microsoft have given little a few more secrets out about the future shape of gaming with Microsoft. Apparently, Xbox owners will be in for a treat.

The next Xbox will support a marketplace where gamers can browse by game, genre, game level, content, weapons and vehicles among other criteria, while micro-transactions will allow gamers to buy content to suit specific needs. Custom playlists that allow players to connect their own music are also planned.