Microsoft today announced a new webcam "LifeCam VX-5000", which reshapes the webcam experience with a unique bendable attachment base that molds to virtually any surface, from a notebook to a desktop, so that you can take it anywhere. The cam offers MSN Photo Swap, a special feature that lets you share digital photos in midvideo conversation and see real-time reactions as both callers view the pictures. The VX-5000 also provides 640x480 video resolution, 1.3-megapixel still photography and built-in unidirectional microphone.

Microsoft also launched two affordable products made to enhance the computing experience: the LifeCam VX-500 and LifeChat LX-2000. With true VGA video, the LifeCam VX-500 enhances the webcam experience with brilliant video quality, and its compact design allows for easy mobility — working seamlessly with both notebooks and desktop PCs.

The LifeChat LX-2000 delivers supreme comfort as a portable, full-size headset that is perfect for music, gaming, online chatting and more. The unique collapsible design allows the headset to fold into a compact shape for easy portability — just throw it into the carrying case and go. Both the LifeCam VX-500 and the LifeChat LX-2000 can be easily used with major instant messaging programs, and the setup is quicker than ever, with no software needed.

The LifeCam VX-5000 will be available in June for $50, while the LifeCam VX-500 ($17) and LifeChat LX-2000 ($30) will be available by month end.