Support

What is MSN Direct?

MSN® Direct gives you instant access to information such as weather, stocks, top news stories, entertainment news, sports news, business news, and more. Information is presented in a glanceable format and is easily accessible right from the home screen of your device. Content is automatically updated to give you a fast and fun experience. It's always on and always there!

How much does MSN Direct cost?

Microsoft does not charge anything for download or use of the MSN Direct application. Please note however, that downloading and using MSN Direct requires data connectivity from your wireless carrier, which may charge additional fees. Check with your wireless provider for its coverage areas and service fees.

Why is an unlimited data plan generally recommended?

If you do not have an unlimited data plan, your wireless carrier may bill you the applicable airtime, data and usage fees, and taxes to download and use MSN Direct. MSN Direct automatically synchronizes your phone with the latest content available, and that could result in additional charges from your wireless provider. If you have an unlimited data plan, however, you will likely pay a set amount per month for unlimited use, and so the wireless charges from your provider will be more predictable. For these reasons, under most circumstances an unlimited data plan will allow you to enjoy MSN Direct to the fullest. However, you should contact your wireless provider to determine what the best option for you is.

How do I get the MSN Direct application?

1. By Text Message: Enter your phone number on the website, and we will send a link to the download page directly to your mobile phone.

2. From Your Mobile Browser: On your mobile phone, open the web browser and go to http://phone.msndirect.com. Follow the instructions on the page to download and install MSN Direct.

3. From Your Computer:

  1. Connect your Windows Mobile phone to your computer using the appropriate cable for your device.
  2. On the Get MSN Direct page, click "Download Installer" under the "From your computer" section.
  3. When prompted, select Run to start the installation.
  4. You should shortly see the MSN Direct Setup Wizard.
  5. On the MSN Direct Setup Wizard, click Next to start the installation.
  6. Read the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy, select I Agree and then click Next to proceed.
  7. Select an installation folder and then select Next to confirm installation.
  8. Installation to your PC will complete and you will be prompted to choose the installation location on your phone.
  9. Select the installation folder on your phone and select Next.
  10. You should see an installation complete dialog. Dismiss the dialog and disconnect your phone from your computer.
  11. Return to the idle screen of your phone to begin using MSN Direct.

How do I know if my phone can run MSN Direct?

MSN Direct is available on many Windows Mobile® powered phones. MSN Direct should run on your phone if you are using a Windows Mobile 6 on a QVGA phone.

How big is the MSN Direct download?

The MSN Direct Application is approximately 450KB.

What do I need to download and install MSN Direct?

You will need a Windows Mobile 6.0 or higher phone, mobile Internet (WAP) settings, and a data plan.

How do I navigate through the features of MSN Direct?

Please reference the How It Works page.

How do I customize MSN Direct?

Please reference the How It Works page.

How do I submit product feedback about MSN Direct?

Please use the feedback form to send us your comments. Make sure to include phone specifics.

How do I report problems with my MSN Direct service?

Please use the feedback form to send us your comments. Make sure to include phone specifics.

What languages is MSN Direct available in?

MSN Direct is available in English (US).

How do I uninstall MSN Direct?

You can uninstall MSN Direct using the Remove Programs option on your Windows Mobile® powered phone. You can find this under the phone's Settings menu.

How do I update MSN Direct?

The MSN Direct application will let you know when there is a new update available. Alternatively, you can check for and download updates by navigating to the MSN Direct website using your mobile browser or from your PC.

I changed my home screen and MSN Direct disappeared. How do I get it back?

MSN Direct installs itself on the home screen selected at the time of installation. If you have since changed your home screen, MSN Direct will not show on the new home screen.

To get MSN Direct back, reset your home screen by going to Settings > Home Screen and selecting MSN Direct Default. If you want to a use different home screen, then you will need to first set your device to the home screen you wish to use, uninstall MSN Direct and then re-install it.

When this is done, you will see MSN Direct added to your home screen.

Is there a way for me to find out when a new version or feature has been released?

Yes, sign up for our email notification or watch for an announcement in the forum.

How can I check which Windows Mobile version my phone is running?

You can get the Windows Mobile version number by selecting
Start->Setting->About

How can I tell if I have a QVGA phone?

On your phone, go to Start->Settings->Device Information. Look for the display resolution. If the display resolution is 240x320 or 320x240, you have a QVGA phone.