Microsoft has released the final version of Windows Live Essentials 2011 over on explorer.live.com. The updated programs are available in 48 languages and will work on Windows Vista and Windows 7, but not on Windows XP. The software giant also announced that Dell will be the first global PC maker to start Windows Live Essentials on its Windows 7 PCs.
The Windows Live Essentials team says it focused on updating the applications in a way that complements Windows 7. Specifically, Microsoft says it aimed on making three tasks easier: creating and sharing photos and movies with your closest friends, organizing your e-mail accounts in one place, as well as synchronizing files across your computers and accessing them from anywhere with an Internet connection. All applications now use the new ribbon UI and Windows 7's Jump Lists.
Windows Live Essentials is a suite of Windows client applications that includes Messenger, Mail, Photo Gallery, Movie Maker, Writer, Family Safety, Mesh, and the Bing Bar. The apps have been in beta testing since this past June.