In addition to the screenshots that are being circulated around the internet showing the upcoming build of Windows Live Messenger 9.0, we have some information to update our readers regarding the overall design of the new version as well as a new feature we're going to be seeing. As we announced a few days ago, Windows Live Messenger 9.0 will use WPF effects. These effects have been confirmed to be limited in Milestone 1 (M1) of the new version, however in the coming months we will see a complete UI using WPF effects.

The screenshots that are being circulated at this time do not show the WPF features because the build being shown is M1. We can confirm that M2 has been released internally and is currently being tested by internal dogfood testers. By the time we enter beta phase (which should be less than a month away), we will see some nifty WPF features. So if you haven't made the transition to Windows Vista, now would be the time to because Messenger is not the only thing we're going to see taking advantage of Vista only technology. Wave 3 of Windows Live is going to be the best wave we've seen, so keep checking back for more information!

Oh, and if you don't have a Microsoft Zune, we'd highly suggest you get one because there's been some awesome new features added to Windows Live Messenger that will make your Zune experience 10x better. One feature we've been told we're going to see in the next build of Windows Live Messenger is complete synchronization with your display status and your Zune Social status.

As always we've more to come. Check back with Messenger Stuff frequently for the latest information on Windows Live Messenger 9.0 and subscribe to our RSS feed for more exclusive news as we get it (or are allowed to publish it!).

Just a quick note to let you know that the recently updated Zune software now supports Windows Live Messenger's "show what I'm listening to" personal message feature.

If you're fed up with you computer's media player looking like a spreadsheet or want to try something fresh for your music, pictures and videos then I thoroughly recommend giving the Zune software a try.

Whether you have a Zune device or not (which is more likely to be the case due to its current US exclusivity) you can give version 2.5 of the software a try for all your basic media player features and a lot more, including social features, marketplace integration and a great interface.

Download or find out more about the Zune software