Windows Live Essentials 2012 is out. But should you install it?

By Andrea Borman
in Poll Station

 Share

Will you upgrade to Windows Live Essentials 2011 or 2012?  

183 members have voted

  1. 1. Are you still using Windows Live Essentials 2009?

    • Yes
      2
    • No
      121
    • I use Windows Live Messenger 8.5
      0
    • I use MSN Messenger 7.5
      2
    • I don't use Windows Live Essentials or Messenger.
      25

  2. 2. What do you think of the forced upgrade by Microsoft to WLE 2011 version?

  3. 3. Will you install Windows Live Essentials 2012?


Recommended Posts

Rising Star

Andrea Borman

Posted
Posted

I have just read on the Microsoft website that Windows Live Essentials 2012 has just been released by Microsoft.

This comes at a time when only a few weeks ago Microsoft issued a mandatory update in July.To all Windows Vista,Windows 7 and Windows 8 users.Who are still on Windows Live Essentials 2009 version to upgrade to WLE 2011 version. Which is much hated by many Windows users.

And as a result most Windows 7,Windows Vista and Windows 8 users,including me,have refused to upgrade to WLE 2011 version. And have successfully stayed on WLE 2009 version. And some people are using earlier versions of Windows Live Messenger. Windows Live Messenger 8.5 and MSN Messenger 7.5.

But now Microsoft have put out WLE 2012 version. And from the screenshots,it looks even worse than WLE 2011 version. It is more confusing and there is even more of the Ribbon than there was in WLE 2011 version.

And now when you go to the Microsoft website in Windows 7 or Windows 8,you get redirected to the WLE 2012 download page.

Windows Live Essentials 2012 is only for Windows 7 and Windows 8. So you won't have to worry about it if you are on Windows XP or Windows Vista.

And of course you can avoid upgrading to WLE 2012 just like you can WLE 2011.And stay on WLE 2009 version. Which I have done.

So will you install WLE 2012 or not?

Well as for me. I have never upgraded to WLE 2011 version and I have stayed with WLE 2009 version. So I am certainly not going to upgrade to WLE 2012 version. So I am not installing this WLE 2012 NO WAY. I am staying with WLE 2009 version. Andrea Borman.

Grand Master

Noir Angel

Posted
Posted

So the crux of your argument is "it's new therefore people shouldn't install it"? I'll wait for some more opinions before I decide.

  • Lirodon, fanel89 and halcyoncmdr
  • Like 3
Mentor

grayscale

Posted
Posted

Come on Andrea, aren't you beating a dead horse now?

This.

OP: Your thread has already most if not all of the answers on why you should upgrade. On the same thread also, you had already mentioned you're reasons why you don't want to upgrade. What's new on this one?

Grand Master

+pmrd Subscriber²

Posted
  • Subscriber²
Posted

AndreaBorman, if you would take half the time you spend to make your Windows eye-gouging and installing obsolete software you could learn how the new programs works and realize that they are much better than the older version. I know 9 year old kids who are able to use these apps you find "confusing".

Grand Master

Ci7

Posted
Posted

And as a result most Windows 7,Windows Vista and Windows 8 users,including me,have refused to upgrade to WLE 2011 version. And have successfully stayed on WLE 2009 version. And some people are using earlier versions of Windows Live Messenger. Windows Live Messenger 8.5 and MSN Messenger 7.5.

you got that figure from were? it look like there is only you!

as for me didn't hardly ever used it since ages otherwise would had installed it already '12

whatsapp cover my instant massaging needs , facebook cover the rest of it

Rising Star

Andrea Borman

Posted
  • Author
Posted

Well there has already been a lot of complaints from people all over the web on other sites and forums who hate WLE 2011.And have kept on using WLE 2009 version.

But then a few weeks ago Microsoft issued the July update to upgrade to WLE 2011 version. Which a lot of people have avoided. By changing Windows Live Messenger to 2009 program compatibility mode to Windows XP Service Pack 3 or Service pack 2. Or they have used Messenger Reviver to block the update.

And now Microsoft go and make a worse version than WLE 2011 version. WLE 2012 version.

This has got to be a joke surely. Andrea Borman.

Grand Master

articuno1au

Posted
Posted (edited)

I think you will find that if you enter "Windows Live Suite 2011 sucks" into Google, it will provide you information that perfectly reflects your own personal point of view..

Further, most people have updated their clients, if for no other reason than they don't know any better than to click "Update" when provided with the button.

There's a reason Microsoft release product updates. They fix bugs, and support for new features and generally aim to make a better piece of software. In particular, the addition of Exchange Active Sync (which you would be using if you weren't too busy sticking with deprecated technologies).

You haven't had time, nor the proficiency to proclaim that WLE'12 is worse than '11, or even '09.

Luddite madam. Luddite.

Edited by articuno1au
  • Calum, KRazpopov and MFH
  • Like 3
Rising Star

Andrea Borman

Posted
  • Author
Posted

Well we have got WLE 2009 version,which is the latest version on our Windows XP. So I don't see why we can't have it on Windows Vista and Windows 7. And WLE 2009 and Messenger 2009 is working on my Windows 8. Andrea Borman.

Grand Master

Charisma Veteran

Posted
  • Veteran
Posted

Why make such a big deal about your messenging program anyway? Is that the only thing you spend your time on? If it's that confusing, use Skype or something.

Community Regular

KRazpopov

Posted
Posted

Care to explain exactly how WLE 2012 is worse than 2011? (And how 2011 is worse than 2009, apart from the ribbon, which you can hide.)

There are barely any differences between WLE 2011 and 2012. No features have been removed, a few have been added here and there, and some of the applications now have more of a Metro UI.

Personally, I installed it without hesitation as soon as I found out about it, and I haven't had any problems with it.

Andrea, the normal behavior when using certain software which receives updates is to install them. Not to avoid them and delete any reminiscence of the new software and use 16-bit applications.

Well we have got WLE 2009 version,which is the latest version on our Windows XP. So I don't see why we can't have it on Windows Vista and Windows 7. And WLE 2009 and Messenger 2009 is working on my Windows 8. Andrea Borman.

That's like asking why we can't have IE6 in Windows 7. WLE 2009 should not be used on Vista/7/8, because there's a better alternative.

Grand Master

articuno1au

Posted
Posted

Well we have got WLE 2009 version,which is the latest version on our Windows XP. So I don't see why we can't have it on Windows Vista and Windows 7. And WLE 2009 and Messenger 2009 is working on my Windows 8. Andrea Borman.

Clearly you can have WLE'09 running on your computer. As you have repeatedly stated, it's running on your computer right now.

The software has clearly reach end-of-life. There's no reason to stick with WLE'09 beyond an unwillingness to change anything.

You realise by running the older software (running on an older .net framework) you are getting much slower and less efficient software? Not to mention all of the bugs/security vulnerabilities that are potentially present.

Here's my challenge to you. Install WLE'12 on your Windows 8 machine, and then FORCE YOURSELF to use it for 2 weeks in a row WITHOUT going back to WLE'09 at all (even for a minute).

After that time, go back to WLE'09 and see if it's as good as you remember it..

Rising Star

Andrea Borman

Posted
  • Author
Posted

Here is Windows Live Essentials 2008 on one of my Windows 7 netbooks. WLE 2008 is the very first WLE. And comes with Windows Live Messenger 8.5 and you have to set it in program compatibility mode for Windows 2000 to run it.

And the other picture is of Windows Live Photo Gallery 2008.It looks quite nice. And it looks like the Windows Vista Photo Gallery and Windows Vista Explorer. I think it is clone of Windows Vista's Windows Photo Gallery.

WLE 2008 also comes with WL Mail,and WL Writer. And I downloaded WLE 2008 from this website,if anyone is interested. Here-http://download.chip.eu/en/Windows-Live-Photo-Gallery-2008_1369745.html

But it may be a problem running WL Messenger 8.5 or MSN Messenger 7.5 on Windows 8. Because there is no option to set a program in compatibility mode for Windows 2000 on Windows 8. Andrea Borman.

post-417173-0-32492200-1344698489_thumb.

post-417173-0-50835500-1344698512_thumb.

Veteran

max84

Posted
Posted

I just don't people like you...

You have like 3 people on your Messenger list. It's not like you need it that much anyway. Switch to something modern alltogether, and get Skype and Picasa.

Everybody has a choice, but using old software is not advisable after a couple of months.

Grand Master

Charisma Veteran

Posted
  • Veteran
Posted

I don't use Skype because it did not work well on my netbooks. I think Skype is more for laptops or large computers not netbooks. Andrea Borman.

Yeah OK, tell that to the millions of people who use it on their tablets and smartphones. Wat?

Rising Star

Andrea Borman

Posted
  • Author
Posted

Yeah OK, tell that to the millions of people who use it on their tablets and smartphones. Wat?

Well when I installed Skype on my netbook. When it came to Skype testing my webcam and video calling software it said my software was not up to it. Well I cannot remember what the error message exactly was.

But that is rubbish. As my webcam and built in mic work fine with Google Talk,Aim Messenger and Windows Live Messenger. So it's not my netbook. It's Skype that was the problem. Andrea Borman.

This topic is now closed to further replies.
 Share
Go to topic listing

  • Posts

    • Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) 18.1.5.5

      By Copernic · Posted

      Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) 18.1.5.5 by Razvan Serea Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) is a utility for completely removing AMD/NVIDIA/INTEL graphics drivers and related packages from your system, attempting to eliminate all leftovers (including registry entries, folders and files, driver store). Though AMD/NVIDIA/INTEL drivers can usually be removed via the Windows Control Panel, this uninstaller tool was created for situations where standard uninstall fails, or when you need to fully remove NVIDIA or ATI graphics card drivers. After using this driver cleaner, your system will behave as though it’s the first time you’re installing a new driver—similar to a fresh Windows installation. As with all such tools, we recommend creating a restore point beforehand, allowing you to undo changes if issues arise. If you're having trouble installing an older or newer driver, try it—there are reports that it resolves such problems. Recommended usage: The tool can be used in Normal mode but for absolute stability when using DDU, Safemode is always the best. Make a backup or a system restore (but it should normally be pretty safe). It is best to exclude the DDU folder completely from any security software to avoid issues. You do NOT need to uninstall the driver prior using DDU. Requirements: .NET Framework 4.8 Compatible with Windows 7, 8, 8.1, 10, and 11 (32-bit or 64-bit) Note: Using on Insider Preview builds is at your own risk. Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) 18.1.5.5 changelog: Added 'Reset to recommended' button for the Options. General fixes and improvements. Download: Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) 18.1.5.5 | 1.7 MB (Freeware) Download: DDU Portable | 1.2 MB Links: Display Driver Uninstaller Home Page | Screenshot Get alerted to all of our Software updates on Twitter at @NeowinSoftware
    • WACUP 1.99.51.24568 Preview

      By Copernic · Posted

      WACUP 1.99.51.24568 Preview by Razvan Serea WACUP (WinAmp Community Update Project) is a modern, enhanced version of the classic Winamp music player, designed for better stability, performance, and compatibility. Built for Windows, WACUP retains the familiar Winamp interface while adding 64-bit support, bug fixes, and new features like improved audio format support, customizable skins, and optimized playlist management. Unlike bloated alternatives, WACUP focuses on lightweight performance and regular updates, making it the best choice for fans of the classic Winamp experience. Basically, if you miss the good old days of Winamp and want a modern upgrade that doesn’t mess things up, WACUP is for you! WACUP key features: Classic Winamp Feel – Keeps the familiar interface and functionality. Bug Fixes & Stability – Fixes old Winamp issues and improves performance. 64-Bit Support – Works better on modern systems. More Formats & Plugins – Supports additional audio formats and third-party plugins. Customizable UI – Skins and tweaks for a personalized look. Better Library Management – Improved playlists, media organization, and search. No Bloat – Focuses on performance without unnecessary extras. Regular Updates – Community-driven development with new features and fixes. WACUP 1.99.51.24568 Preview changelog: Fixed a deadlock seen from the recent crash reports when doing some of the drag + drop actions within the media library window Fixed a loading crash seen related to a problem with some of the artwork cache image files being restored which should now be better handled allowing for the bad image to be removed without it failing Fixed a deadlock seen from the recent crash reports when the internal metadata cache clearing is triggered which could block the main ui thread for too long with this now being moved to a background thread Fixed some performance issues with some of the methods related to determining artwork support which mainly affected the local library import / refresh (this is still slower for some compared to other players because there's more data & artwork aspects being checked for which means doing more processing on a single file despite the best of attempts to reduce duplicate / heavy processing where possible) Fixed a crash with the JTFE based missing files hotkey which no one seems to have used for an age for this to appear (maybe it's time to seriously consider stripping out features that aren't being used) Fixed how some of the file types which use extra information to reference their sub-songs is handled which was preventing some from being correctly resolved back to their base file (noticed fixing above) Fixed an issue with the handling of files with underscores in their filepath which wasn't being correctly handled causing some of the filename to be lost when shown as the title if title reading is delayed Fixed a few things that might be behind NotSoDirect not being stable for some setups though am still not certain that the changes done for this are going to fully resolve the problem from the crash reports Fixed the OS toast handling when there's no prior shortcut in the OS start menu to now create the shortcut (needed to allow the yes/no buttons for the new build / post-release toast) to be done as a hidden one so it's less likely to cause annoyance for those not wanting to see it whilst still allowing this less than ideal OS api implementation requirement to be met to avoid toasts without the needed buttons Fixed a regression when moving from taglib1 to taglib2 which broke some of the handling in place to allow for external programs to still access files when wacup has a held open cached instance of the file Everything else Updated cppwinrt (gen_win10shell.dll) to 3.0.260520.1 (26 May 2026) Updated libcurl (libcurl.dll) to 8.2.1 (24 Jun 2026) Updated Monkey's Audio (in_ape.dll) to 13.15 (28 Jun 2026) Updated mpg123 (mpg123.dll) to 1.33.6 (6 Jun 2026) Updated OpenSSL (libcurl.dll) to 3.5.7 (9 Jun 2026) Updated pugixml to 1.16 (16 Jun 2026) Updated taglib (tag2.dll) to 2.3.0 (11 May 2026) Updated vgmstream (in_vgmstream.dll) to the latest Git commit from 28 Jun 2026 Download: WACUP 64-bit | 9.6 MB (Freeware) Download: WACUP 32-bit View: WACUP Website | Screenshots Get alerted to all of our Software updates on Twitter at @NeowinSoftware
    • Dbrand thought they could get away with this Steam Machine case, Valve disagreed

      By Doli · Posted

      "over a thousand engineering hours" and started selling it but could not take a couple of minuets to send an AI email to ask permission. What an expensive lesson.
    • Can't access the forum on mobile

      By WITHOUT-ME · Posted

      just tested it yesterday, a simple page with autoloading ADS takes 60mb....just 1 page for 60 megabytes.   poor people with a limited internet never will visit neolose
    • Tor Browser 15.0.17

      By Copernic · Posted

      Tor Browser 15.0.17 by Razvan Serea Protect your privacy. Defend yourself against network surveillance and traffic analysis. Tor is a network of virtual tunnels that allows people and groups to improve their privacy and security on the Internet. The Tor software protects you by bouncing your communications around a distributed network of relays run by volunteers all around the world: it prevents somebody from watching your Internet connection and learning what sites you visit, it prevents the sites you visit from learning your physical location, and it lets you access sites which are blocked. The Tor Browser Bundle lets you use Tor on Windows, Mac OS X, or Linux without needing to install any software. It can run off a USB flash drive, comes with a pre-configured web browser to protect your anonymity, and is self-contained. Tor Browser 15.0.17 changelog: All Platforms Updated Tor to 0.4.9.11 Updated NoScript to 13.6.25.1984 Build System / All Platforms Bug tor-browser-build#41821: Update gpg subkeys for boklm Bug tor-browser-build#41827: Update morgan's keychain with renewed key Download: Tor Browser (64-bit) | Tor Browser (32-bit) | 109.0 MB (Open Source) View: Tor Browser Website | Other Operating Systems Get alerted to all of our Software updates on Twitter at @NeowinSoftware

  • Recent Achievements

    • Reacting Well
      Wakeen1966 earned a badge
      Reacting Well
    • Rookie
      Almohandis went up a rank
      Rookie
    • Apprentice
      jahara21 went up a rank
      Apprentice
    • Reacting Well
      NovaEdgeX earned a badge
      Reacting Well
    • Week One Done
      NovaEdgeX earned a badge
      Week One Done

  • Popular Contributors

    1. 1
      +primortal
      530
    2. 2
      +Edouard
      266
    3. 3
      PsYcHoKiLLa
      148
    4. 4
      Steven P.
      99
    5. 5
      macoman
      55
    Show More

  • Tell a friend

    Love Neowin? Tell a friend!