In an article appearing in the Sunday Sept 2 version of the online NY Times, with a publish date of Sept. 3, John Markoff of the NY Times reports that Microsoft is prepared to release it's software "suite" this week:

This week, it plans to turn that strategy upside down, making available free software that connects its Windows operating system to software services delivered on the Internet, a practice increasingly referred to as “cloud” computing. The initiative is part of an effort to connect Windows more seamlessly to a growing array of Internet services.

The article goes on to explain what will be offered in the suite:

The software release will offer PC users the option of downloading a set of the services with a single Unified Installer program, or as separate components. The individual services are Windows Live Photo Gallery, Windows Live Mail, Windows Live Messenger 8.5 and Windows Live OneCare Family Safety, a computer security program.

The release, though it includes the Windows Live Writer blogging application...

While it seems unclear from this wording if Live Writer will be offered as part of the suite, and whether or not this will mark the end of the Messenger 8.5 and Windows Live Photo Gallery betas, it seems like a good bet.  We should have more soon, stay tuned.

Thanks, ViewMaster, for the tip!