Microsoft pitches Windows Live bundle

Microsoft is to distribute several beta versions of its web services in a single installer

Microsoft has rolled out a new offering which bundles its Windows Live web services together.

The company revealed on its Windows Live Wire blog that it will distribute several beta versions of its web services in a single installer, allowing users to obtain multiple applications with a single download.

Microsoft said that the ultimate aim is to tie its burgeoning web service business with Windows. The software giant is currently locked in a competition for the web app sector with rivals Google and Yahoo.

"This new suite of applications is a new way that we can make connecting, communicating and sharing anywhere a terrific experience on your Windows PC," said Chris Jones, vice president of the Windows Live team.

"Together with our web services, we have a complete suite that combines the best of the web and the best of Windows, and works the way you want."

The suite includes Windows Live Mail, Windows Live Photo Gallery, Windows Live Messenger IM and a blogging application known as Windows Live Writer.

Users who do not wish to have the entire suite will still be able to download the applications individually.

The announcement comes just one day after Microsoft made a major announcement about another big web project, releasing a Linux port of its Silverlight rich internet application plug-in.