Microsoft today announced the release of Messenger for Mac 5.0, the latest version of the company’s free instant messaging software for Mac OS X. The company says that this release will make secure, real-time communication and collaboration easier for corporate Mac customers and provide enhancements to meet the needs of home users. The features include: support for Live Communications Server 2005, enhanced messaging security, Public IM Connectivity and integration with the Global Address List, tabbed viewing to separate and provide access to corporate and personal contacts from one location, multiple file transfer and improved proxy support, an updated design that features a Mac OS-like brushed-metal look and feel, customizable display pictures and the ability to view animated and custom emoticons, and more. Microsoft Messenger for Mac 5.0 will be available sometime today from the company’s Web site in English, Dutch, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Spanish and Swedish.