Microsoft launches rebranded unified communications, Lync

Ron

Microsoft today released the new version of its unified communications product, now called Lync, and will begin selling licenses to businesses on Dec. 1.

Formerly known as Office Communicator and Office Communications Server, Lync 2010 and Lync Server 2010 offer instant messaging, video conferencing, desktop sharing and phone calls — essentially Windows Live Messenger on steroids. The software integrates with Office, SharePoint and Exchange…