He described it as a hybrid turret with slightly reduced functionality but capabilities such as private wire, ability to set up and join intercoms, monitor and drive speakers and do instant messaging to portfolio managers and compliance.

FORBES: Traders Turn from Algos to Turrets as Volatility Rises

He is quick to add, however, that other Microsoft services using Passport could do so, including MSN, Hotmail and the instant-messaging service.

FORBES: Where Everybody Knows Your Name

Scott Cleland, what do you make of Google's expansion into this Web-based phone service and instant messaging?

NPR: Firms Vie to Dominate Messaging Convergence