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MSN Messenger gets an Avatar-like upgrade photo

Today, Arstechnica found that Microsoft unveiled a project that works with MSN Messenger to give users Mii-like avatars. The program is called “Minimise Me” and it’s an extremely simple little web-based service that allows users to construct faces, then port them to MSN Messenger. It’s a lot like the Mii creator, which allows users to pick from several basic components and then organize them around the face to create unique looks.

More interesting than creating dumb little people to go with an IM client, is the option creating dumb little people on Xbox Live this fall. Could this IM addition be paving the way for a more advanced service in the future that would include Microsoft’s Avatar system? The integration of MSN Messenger with the Live dashboard went over fairly well, so I can’t imagine that this doesn’t have some sort of correlation to the announcement at E3.

It could also turn out to be completely nothing, and just a good opportunity for Microsoft to try to reach out to those who like playing the Wii, but use AIM. Regardless, I made my own Minimise-Me up above. Isn’t he dreamy?








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18 comments | showing # 1 to 18
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Gantz's Avatar - Comment posted on 07/18/2008 18:58
Gantz
I can't BELIEVE Microsoft is ripping off the new 360 update!
mix's Avatar - Comment posted on 07/18/2008 19:07
mix
Hrmmmmmmmmmm....Hrmmmmmmmm

I would see no real use for this with MSN as you can use whatever "avatar" picture you like.
Arttemis's Avatar - Comment posted on 07/18/2008 19:15
Arttemis
I think I'm sick.
AlienGuy18's Avatar - Comment posted on 07/18/2008 19:29
AlienGuy18
I made one. I was bored. It produces better results than some other stuff iv'e seen on the internets.
ThisYearsPink's Avatar - Comment posted on 07/18/2008 19:29
ThisYearsPink
Why don't they have noses?
Technophile's Avatar - Comment posted on 07/18/2008 19:31
Technophile
@TYP

because noses are THE DEVIL!
Y0j1mb0's Avatar - Comment posted on 07/18/2008 19:36
Y0j1mb0
I think they have more customizable options than the 360.
hoydensnare's Avatar - Comment posted on 07/18/2008 19:39
hoydensnare
Crappy avatars for an even crappier instant messenger. Score another for MS!
kevkevblazini's Avatar - Comment posted on 07/18/2008 20:11
kevkevblazini
damn Microsoft. Now all I need is some sort of pointless ass "Mii" system on my Windows Mobile phone, and I'll be set.
Triox's Avatar - Comment posted on 07/18/2008 20:12
Triox
I want a nose dammit....
Keaglez's Avatar - Comment posted on 07/18/2008 21:45
Keaglez
i think i'll pass on buying a 360 again. I dont want to turn on my 360 and have to see a whole bunch of smiling cartoons..
CelicaCrazed's Avatar - Comment posted on 07/19/2008 00:07
CelicaCrazed
Yeah and I JUST realized that they have avatars on Nike+ as well (I haven't been on for several weeks). What is everyone's fascination with them all of a sudden??
mistic's Avatar - Comment posted on 07/19/2008 00:39
mistic
At least avatars look better then a text-based friendslist :-)
atheistium's Avatar - Comment posted on 07/19/2008 07:06
atheistium
GOD ITS UGLY
LilJimmyNordin's Avatar - Comment posted on 07/19/2008 10:16
LilJimmyNordin
Played with it for a bit... Somehow, it was even LESS accurate than the Mii system. Couldn't find appropriate parts. Attempt to craft a decent likeness failed. Closed window forever.

How to make it better? More options, and then the ability to take the avatar you've created and change its emotions to make emoticons that actually look like you.
hardwhorcomy37's Avatar - Comment posted on 06/14/2011 17:32
hardwhorcomy37
Silas ever convert you, you will give him abundance of alms for buy acarbose
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