Microsoft today is releasing the final version of its new set of Windows Live apps, including updates to its photo and video editing programs, as well as synching and blogging tools.

The Windows Live Essentials 2011 apps have been in testing since June and are available for download from Microsoft's site. The collection includes Windows Live Photo Gallery, Movie Maker, Messenger and Mail, along with Windows Live Mesh, Family Safety and Writer.

Microsoft also plans to announce that Dell will be the first global PC maker to start including the programs pre-loaded on its PCs.

Of note, the updated programs will work on Windows Vista or Windows 7, but not on Windows XP.

More: http://news.cnet.com/8301-13860_3-20018173-56.html