A forthcoming revision to Hotmail will give users of Microsoft’s email service the ability to gain consumer push email. The technology used to power push Hotmail email will be Exchange ActiveSync, the same architecture used to give corporate customers push email on Exchange servers. Also new to Hotmail will be an integrated contact list, much like what you have on the HTC Sense experience, MOTO BLUR, and Android devices where Facebook, LinkedIn, and MySpace contacts are also integrated into your Hotmail contact list. Additionally, YouTube video links as well as Flickr album links sent within an email can be viewed within the email itself without having to click on the link and be re-directed to a browser.

The push email service is expected to debut in June with Windows Live Wave 4.

According to Newowin, there will also be additional security enhancements to the service:

Microsoft is also planning to improve the security features of Hotmail. The new Hotmail introduces increased security in the form of “account proofs”. Proofs allow users to recover access to their Hotmail account using mobile phones or PCs as proof of account ownership. Similar to the secret security questions, users will be able to send an account recapture code via an SMS message or regain access to their Hotmail accounts by using a computer that is registered with Hotmail. Microsoft also plans to introduce single use codes. The codes will be available for when you sign into Hotmail from public computers. By using a code you will not have to enter your password to access Hotmail, preventing it being stolen by key loggers that could be installed on the machine. A one time code will be sent to users via an alternative email or mobile phone.

(via: Mobile Tech World)