Microsoft wasn't the first to hop on this bandwagon, but they are certainly riding along. Windows Live Messenger now incorporates the ability to connect with Facebook and instant message your Facebook friends using the familiar look of Windows Live. This is available only in the beta of Windows Live Messenger as part of Windows Live Essentials Wave 4. The main focus of the new edition of Essentials seems to be adding social networking support across the board.

Windows Live Essentials Wave 4 will be available as a free upgrade to current Essentials users and as a free download for new users as well. There's no final release date planned, although it's likely the stable version of Wave 4 will be ready for the holiday season. Until then, you can check out the beta here.