Windows Phone gets cross-platform messaging service with "Beep" for IM+

IM+ has been around for some time now for Windows Phone, offering users of the mobile platform a one-stop hub for all their instant messaging needs. Offering support for an abundance of instant messaging clients, the latest software update for the app extends its functionality of offering a cross-platform messaging service.

Similar to what we find with cross-platform messaging services like Qik, IM+ now boasts its very own mix in the form of Beep, which allows users to keep in touch with friends running the iOS, Android, BlackBerry, and Windows Phone apps. Essentially, Beep integrates with your handset’s address book contacts and transform your typical SMS or MMS into an instant message – thus, saving you on your allotted amount per month. And of course, the best part of it is that messages via Beep are instant and free!

Interestingly, despite offering a deep set of supported instant messaging clients, like AIM, Google Talk, ICQ, Facebook, Skype, and MySpace to name a few, this version actually drops support for Windows Live Messenger – due to a request from Microsoft. Yes, that might seem like a bummer, but considering that this is Windows Phone that we're talking about, the service is already baked into the platform.

source: Shape Services & Microsoft via WMPoweruser