Yahoo Messenger 9.0 Beta Launched

Yahoo today announced the launch of its Messenger 9.0 Beta, a new version of the popular Instant Messaging software, that's designed to work on both Windows XP and Vista.

The latest version allows people in six new markets to use the program in their native language. They are the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, and India. The Indian version enables users to chat in Hindi.

As for features, there's the obviously new design, and you can choose from several color themes. Avatars and status messages can now be seen right next to contacts' names. New skins and emoticons add to the visual appeal.

Aesthetics apart, Messenger 9.0 beta is fully compatible with video and photo sharing applications such as YouTube or Flickr, so sharing pictures and video clips is made simple via the inline media player.

A call forwarding option – rather like Skype’s – allows users to stay connected with contacts even when they’re away from the PC. Voice mails are sent as MP3 attachments via email.

File transfer is claimed to be much more secure, thanks to scan support from Symantec Norton AntiVirus.