With 60 mn users, Microsoft's Outlook replaces Hotmail

Microsoft has announced on its blog that Outlook.com, its new e-mail service, which will replace Hotmail.com, is now out of the preview stage and is open to the public.

The service was first introduced last July and is Microsoft’s answer to rival Google’s popular Gmail service.

Microsoft, which acquired Hotmail in 1997, also said that it won’t force users to change their emails to an “outlook.com” address.

According to CNET , Senior Director of Product Management Dharmesh Mehta said existing Hotmail users can switch over at anytime. You’ll be able to keep using your “@Hotmail” address and you’ll have the option to claim an “@Outlook.com” alias, as well.

The company says they have gained over 60 million users in less than six months of the launch.

Some key features of the service are:

• Cloud sync: Outlook is cloud friendly and promises that all your email will be available wherever you are. Its linked to your calendar as well. The good thing is that it comes with SkyDrive, so for users sending photos and documents, size is no longer a problem. SkyDrive will ensure that attachment worries are a thing of the past.

• New interface: Microsoft has gone for a cleaner interface It also promises users that 30 percent more messages will be visible in your Inbox than other services. Yes, it’s one long scroll down in Outlook.com

• Social networks: Outlook.com is touted as the first email service connected to Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Google, and soon, Skype. Recent status updates, Tweets, the ability to chat and video calls are all promised.

• Apps: Microsoft is also offering free Office Web Apps such as Word, PowerPoint, Excel and OneNote which means you can edit the doc from your inbox.

Check out the uber fast video for Outlook.com