Microsoft rolls out revamped Hotmail service

Microsoft is rolling out a revamped version of its Hotmail messaging service, Windows Live Hotmail Worldwide, in the most significant upgrade to the service since it first launched in 1996. The move is seen by many as another attempt to woo advertisers.
Windows Live Hotmail is launching in 36 languages and allows advertisers the chance to reach over 280 million active users worldwide in what Microsoft describes as “an environment proven to be a key point of influence for purchase decisions”.
Microsoft is offering new banner formats and demographic targeting criteria including: age, gender, occupation, region, country, language, time and day and connection speed.
Chris Dobson, vice-president global sales, Microsoft Digital Advertising Solutions at Microsoft, says: “Windows Live Hotmail is a cornerstone online service for Microsoft and an important part of our expanding online advertising opportunities.”