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Internet portal MSN is launching a new version of Messenger on 18 July which it hopes will extend its peer-to-peer functionality.Version 6.0 is focused around personalisation and sharing so that MSN can try to retain its chunk of the increasingly competitive instant messaging (IM) market. The portal believes its 6.4m UK Messenger users are mainly concerned about how to customise their IM application so that it's suitable for both business and personal use.The new version allows users to select their own backgrounds from a choice of graphics, as well as allowing them to upload pictures from their hard drive. In addition, two tiles on the right-hand side of the client screen allow images to be downloaded and traded with other users.File sharing functionality has been improved so that files appear as a thumbnail before the recipient accepts their download. This is aimed at preventing people from having to download unwanted files.Games are another new feature of Messenger 6.0. The choice of games is currently limited to simple titles like Minesweeper, but the games can be launched within the IM client and plugged onto the conversation window so that text chat can continue."Peer-to-peer sharing gives us a really good idea of what we can do in the future, and represents a tremendous opportunity for future applications," said MSN communications and mobile business manager Will Collins.Messenger 6.0 is compatible with the tablet PC, so users can hand-write messages and draw pictures to send to their friends.The beta version of Messenger 6.0 was released internally to MSN staff at the beginning of June. Its location was also leaked, however, and within a month 2m versions had been downloaded by Internet users around the world.msn.co.ukCopyright: Centaur Communications Ltd. and licensors