Users of the free Windows Live Messenger client available on Windows Mobile got a shock today when they tried to log in, a notice saying "Starting today, your 30 day trial period begins". Uh oh! So far this relates to Windows Mobile and Symbian (e.g. Nokia) devices, and only to users wanting to run Messenger. Mail, Search and Synchonisation features are unaffected.
Microsoft has previously hinted about charging for some mobile services as it made releases during 2007, and this trial period notification seems to signal the start of that. After the 30 day period is up, users will be invited to purchase a Windows Live service pass in order to continue using Messenger on their device. Assuming that billing is consistent for both Windows Mobile and Symbian devices, you will not need a credit card to make the purchase, as the monthly pass will be billed via Premium SMS (PSMS). Fees will vary depending on the country you live in, and from what we've heard are likely to be in the region of €2 per month.
Updated: So we got a statement from Microsoft about the rollout of premium mobile messenger services. See the followup post: Microsoft confirms Symbian mobile messenger charges - Nothing decided yet for Windows Mobile
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