Microsoft, Apple working to fix Hotmail on the iPad

Microsoft is working with Apple to fix problems that some iPad owners are reporting when attempting to compose and reply to an e-mail message on Apple's new tablet.

Microsoft officials acknowledged the problem in a May 14 post to the "Inside Windows Live" blog.

"Rest assured that we’re working with Apple to understand the issues, and we’ll fix them as quickly as possible. In the meantime, we have directed all iPad traffic to our mobile Hotmail website. Alternatively, you can set up the iPad email client to use POP to download your Hotmail," said Mike Schackwitz, a Program Manager with the Windows Live Hotmail team.

Microsoft is set to release a new version of its Windows Live services and software -- known by the codename "Windows Live Wave 4," over the coming weeks. Word is that the service-only pieces of the Windows Live family (including Hotmail) will be released first, followed by the "Windows Live Essentials" bundle (which includes Mail and Messenger). Microsoft will likely "launch" Wave 4 (in beta form, I am guessing) real soon now. (Some are expecting the new Hotmail and Messenger to launch on May 18.)

Microsoft officials said last week that Wave 4 will begin rolling out in final form to consumers by June 15 -- the same date when Office 2010 and Office Web Apps will be released to consumers.