BlackBerry inks deal with MS for Windows Live stuff

I’m not sure how many BlackBerry users also use Hotmail, but the three or four of them will be happy to know that BlackBerry devices will soon support push Hotmail.

Oh, and Windows Live Messenger, too.

According to a recent BlackBerry press release…

Windows Live Hotmail for BlackBerry will allow customers to:

• Use BlackBerry ‘push’ technology for automatic message delivery and message synchronization so the customers’ online account is up-to-date with actions taken on their BlackBerry smartphone
• Use a dedicated inbox for Windows Live Hotmail messages, which are automatically delivered to the smartphone. Customers can also choose to receive their Windows Live Hotmail messages, along with messages from other e-mail accounts, within a single inbox on their BlackBerry smartphone
• Display HTML e-mail with the ability to view graphics, Web links, and contact photos in emails

Windows Live Messenger for BlackBerry will allow customers to:

• Send instant messages and join group chats
• Set status and see the presence of friends and colleagues within Windows Live Messenger or their contact cards
• Customize status messages
• Save conversations
• Showcase their Display Picture (Avatar)
• Send and receive pictures and files
• Use more than 60 emoticons

So there you have it. These new features will be available “beginning this summer,” which as we all know could mean as late as September.