Windows Phone Thoughts: Pocket MSN Soft-Launches

A few weeks ago, Microsoft finally quietly posted a beta of Pocket MSN. For some reason, we didn't pick it up then -- but here's the lowdown.



"Be among the first to try Pocket MSN! You get mobile access to popular MSN services plus a richer experience with these new features*:

• Familiar & Integrated MSN Experience - Enjoy one-click access to MSN Hotmail, MSN Messenger, MSN Alerts, and browse MSN sites including Maps & Directions**. With Pocket MSN your Hotmail is conveniently integrated into your device inbox and using the MSN toolbar icons you can see how many new emails you have received.
  
• More Reachable - Remain available to the people & information that matter most to you, even when your device is in your pocket or handbag. You will be alerted on your device when new email or instant messages arrive. Using these alerts you can immediately join the conversation or read your new Hotmail.
  
• Expanded Mobility - With offline Hotmail capabilities, you can read and compose emails when no data connection is available, like on an airplane. Also, send email to offline MSN Messenger contacts.
  
• Personalization - Set Hotmail filters to only receive email from the people you designate. Pre-select who can send instant messages to your mobile device and whose Messenger status changes you want to see.
  
• Maps & Directions - On-the-fly mapping means finding just about anything on the go."

Here's the kicker, though -- you get a 6 month trial free, but after that it's a whopping $24.99 every 6 months, or about $50 a year. 8O I'm not sure it's worth that much for me. Has someone tried the trial, and if so, can you give us your impressions as to how useful it is?