Microsoft's software-and-services solution, Windows Live, has being giving its last beta refresh as it rapidly approaches a final release.
The software companion, previously known as Windows Live Wave 3, has finally been branded as Windows Live Essentials and acts as an online extension to Windows operating systems. The final release, expected early in 2009, is destined to go hand-in-hand with Windows 7.
The ever-expanding set of "essentials" includes Mail, Messenger, Photo Gallery, Movie Maker, Writer, Toolbar, and Family Safety applications. New additions include the bundling of Windows Live Sync - allowing for a Photo Gallery to be synchronised across multiple computers - and Microsoft Silverlight.
The software's online counterpart, Windows Live services, reached Wave 3 status earlier this month and both software and services appear to be well on course for a final launch prior to the arrival of Windows 7.
Windows Live Essentials can be downloaded here, and the web-based installer will allow you to choose the applications of your choice.
