Several people have been asking about the graphic branding Microsoft plans to use for its Windows Live services. While everything is still in beta and subject to change, we cannot be certain how it will end up, but here's how we understand it at the moment:

 – The "Windows Flag + Windows Live Product name" approach will make up the main logo for each product. The jewel logo that has appeared in a few places will not be used.

 – The Windows Live Orb will be used in a similar way as the orbs present in Vista and Office 2007. It will sit in the left hand corner of client based applications and be used as a menu launcher.

 – The Windows Live Energy ("Flair") header that was first shown in the new Messenger user interface will be used across the Windows Live services. Say byebye to the empty white look.