While MSN Messenger 7.5 just came out, 8.0 is already being worked on and heading towards beta by the end of the year. A third party source whom is said to be from Microsoft has provided us with this information. Here’s a list of possible and rumored features Microsoft is contemplating on going into the IM client:

? Change of Messenger Skins
? Real-time Emotions
? Messenger Built Internal Windows Media Player 10
? Pause/Resumed File Transfers (File Blocked Extension Applied)
? Detailed File Transfer (Download/Upload Speed)
? Animated Display Pictures (.gif .jpg .png (File Support under Consideration))
? Mood Status
? Faster Contact List Loading and scrolling
? Public Profile and MSN Spaces Combined
? More MSN Space features
? New Hotmail and MSN Messenger Integration
? Downloadable MSN Messenger on Mobile
? News Updates according to Location
? Top 10 MSN Music Radio
? New Stylish Notifier Pop-up
? Downloadable Skins for MSN (Contact Window & Conversation Window)
? Complete Integration with Windows XP® & Windows Vista® Codename: Longhorn®
? Offline Voice/Message Machine
? Animated Buddy Icon Helper
? Display Picture Ratings

Source: TheHotFix.com