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As part of its software plus services strategy, Microsoft is enabling third-party developers to build applications that access data from its user-facing Windows Live online services and is rolling out online services specifically for application development. These services offer access to valuable data, the chance to attract Microsoft's large base of online consumers, and lower costs through outsourcing. However, the technologies used to tap into each service vary, making it hard for developers to apply their skills across multiple services, and the instability of Microsoft's consumer online strategy and other factors mean an uncertain future for some of the services.