What a great application inside of MSN Messenger! Imagine having an IM session with someone, and you need to look at a map together or figure out a good place that is convenient for both of you to meet for a drink. This and a bunch more is now possible with a very slick 'Activity application' within Messenger. The application was built using the new Messenger API.

 

To try it out, just start a conversation with someone on your contact list. Then use the Actions -> Start Activity menu (or just click the 'Activities' icon in the toolbar of the conversation window) and select 'Virtual Earth Shared Map'. You will each be prompted to enter your location (city, postcode, landmark, street address...). You'll then each see a VE map appear. As one of you navigates, the changes are seen on both of your sessions. When you search for 'nightclubs' your friend sees the results on the map with you. You can add items to a shared scratch pad, turn on Aerial imagery, and explore the map together interactively.

 

[Note - I'm pretty sure you need to be running MSN messenger v 6.0 or newer for Activity apps to work, so if this doesn't work for you, check your version and update as appropriate]

 

Have Fun!