Fremont to launch in beta

According to TechCrunch, Microsoft’s “Fremont” service is to launch in beta under a new name, yet to be divulged. The service is expected “in the next few weeks under the Live.com brand”.

Fremont appears to be similar to Google Base. Michael Arrington says : “I had a chance to see a demo of the product ~ it’s very cool and will definitely shake things up.”

An MSN Spaces blog, written mostly in Japanese, gives a more detailed description of the product :

This product represents a unique offering by Microsoft to address the person-to-person marketplace. The product, code-named “Fremont,” is a dynamic new listing service that enables people to easily buy, sell, or swap among friends, co-workers, or the public. Fremont enhances your ability to:

* Connect with those you trust ~ your messenger buddies and your coworkers.

* Locate items in your neighborhood or across the country through integration with MapPoint and Windows Live Local (formerly Virtual Earth).

* List easily, instantly, and for free.

Ah so!