ITWire

Telstra is replacing its existing BigPond email service with Microsoft's Windows Live. New customers will go straight onto Windows Live, while existing customers will be progressively given the opportunity to migrate during the year.

Telstra executive director of media, applications and user experience, J-B Rousselot said customers wanted more from their email service, but only if they could keep their email address.

(Hint: if you use an ISP's email service or something like Hotmail or Gmail, invest a few dollars a year on your own domain name and set up email forwarding to whichever account you happen to be using at the time. That way you'll never have to change your address again.)

The change will also allow BigPond customers to use their existing identity to access Microsoft Office Web Apps, SkyDrive, Windows Live Messenger, Windows Live Photo Gallery, and Windows Live Movie Maker.

"To assist customers we have set up a dedicated 'self help' website including "how to" videos, Q&A's and updates on progress of the changeover," said Mr Rousselot. "Our social media channels and 13 POND are ready to help our customers if they need help with moving photos, blogs and other applications."