New Xbox 360 update out today

Microsoft will today release the first of its biannual Xbox 360 updates for 2007, due to be available for download via Xbox Live from around 10am GMT.

The 'Spring Update' will include support for Microsoft live Messenger, so users will be able to take part in up to six conversations at a time with people on their friends list - regardless of whether they're on the dashboard, playing a game, listening to music or watching a film.

Up to 20 people can appear in each coversation window, and users can interact across the PC, Xbox 360 and mobile phone platforms. It's also possible to see Windows Live Messenger users' gamertags and add them to a unified friends list.

Along with support for a USB keyboard, the Xbox 360 version of Live Messenger will offer an on-screen keyboard option and support for the forthcoming Xbox 360 text input device due out this summer.

Other additions featured in the Spring Update include extra support for various media formats and notices when Achievements are unlocked.