Microsoft to deploy 'Live' for Blackberry... finally

Mashable has this news about Microsoft and RIM, makers of Blackberry, finally getting into bed:

BlackBerry maker RIM (Research in Motion) and Microsoft are both gearing up to reach broader audiences with their respective products this year. RIM just hours ago officially introduced its newest smartphone, the BlackBerry Bold. And Microsoft is investing a good amount in its Live services, from mail to maps. But rather than live entirely separate lives parallel to one another in the Web’s most popular and most enduring communications medium, email, the two have chosen to partner up.

Geez.

What the heck has been causing the delay? I can’t tell you how annoying it is as a Blackberry user to have had to arse about NOT being able to use Microsoft services — principally MSN Messenger. Google’s had brilliant, brilliant Google Talk integration for Blackberries for absolutely ages — and that’s a primary reason why I use the service across my devices. But MSN Messenger? Well it’s been like the poor third cousin to me (in the context of Blackberry) because they haven’t had direct support.

So I’m pleased to hear about the partnership. Bring it on. Looking forward to the BOLD.