MS Hailstorm on the Horizon

Microsoft is in the works to dent AOL's long time grip on the instant messaging industry with its new strategy and software technologies dubbed Hailstorm. Mary Jo Foley has the scoop over at ZDNet once again, as the Redmon Giant hopes to take instant messaging to the next level, beyond basic chatting. According to her report, MS plans to use its 'Hailstorm' software to transform IM'ing into a multi-functional platform for Internet productivity, with access to e-mail, stock quotes, and calendar functions. The question remains though, as to what Microsoft will add to the picture that isn't already supported by AOL IM, and what will make it so much better. For more information read Mary Jo's article over at ZDNet.