Microsoft is moving Soapbox from a private beta to a public beta, meaning you can now use the service without an invite.

If you haven't been paying attention, Soapbox is Microsoft's entry into the crowded user-generated video market. I'd imagine it'll have some muscle, because it's Microsoft, but it doesn't really have much to offer that you can't get from YouTube, Stage6, or any number of other video sharing sites. In fact, many of the videos you can find are readily available on other sites.

One thing that does set Soapbox apart from other services is that you can search, browse, and comment on videos without interrupting the video that you're currently watching.

[via NewTeeVee]