Microsoft Corp.'s plans to rebrand its free e-mail, instant messenger and Web search products under the name "Live" could be interpreted as a sign that MSN — the unit that previously housed those products — is a sinking ship.

But John Nicol, the executive recently put in charge of MSN, insists that isn't the case. In an interview Thursday, he said the changes will allow MSN, Microsoft's Internet portal, to focus more on providing content such as entertainment and even home videos.

Nicol, a longtime Microsoft executive who took over as general manager of MSN about three months ago, said the revamped MSN will include more opportunities for users to contribute their own content, such as posting their own videos or rating hotels on the unit's travel site.

A major focus will be on providing more video content online, aiming to go beyond just rebroadcasting television. As an example, he cited an MSN Web site, launched last summer, that complemented a reality show search for a new lead singer for INXS.

(In a separate arrangement, The Associated Press is launching an ad-supported online video news network using technology and advertising support from Microsoft.)