Microsoft is set to launch some time soon the upgrade to its MSN Spaces blogging platform. Known as Windows Live Spaces, the new version of Spaces will include a number of new features, including support for Windows Live Gadgets, a "Friends Explorer" that will allow users to connect over Windows Live Messenger; and more social-networking support. (We're betting the social-networking comes courtesy of Microsoft's "Friends of Friends" service, which Microsoft demonstrated a year ago.) The Windows Live Spaces platform will be support by banner advertising.