While IM+, the multi-protocol instant messaging app from Shape Services, was waiting on approval from Microsoft, we learned its Windows Phone 7 version wasn’t going to include Windows Live Messenger support, supposedly due to Microsoft-imposed restrictions. Then, surprise surprise, the app gained WLM compatibility just a couple weeks later via update. That release also saw a price reduction, which has now led to the release of a free, ad-supported version. From a potentially rocky start, things looked like they were turning out pretty decently for IM+. Sadly, it looks like IM+ flew too close to the sun, and Microsoft is forcing the developer’s hand to once again remove Windows Live Messenger / MSN support.

The announcement of this development came from the app’s Facebook page, where Shape announced that version 1.4 for Windows Phone had been submitted for approval. On the plus side, there’s new support for group chat and some performance boosts in store. The trade-off is losing WLM, possibly forever. Shape actually takes the unusual step of advising its users NOT to upgrade to 1.4 if they’re concerned about retaining WLM compatibility. Way to spoil the fun, Microsoft.

Source: Shape Software

Via: WPCentral