Adobe has introduced a new plug-in for Microsoft's Outlook e-mail client allowing users to share large files via Adobe's SendNow online file transfer service. Utilizing file transfer services like SendNow or YouSendIt.com allows you to bypass your (or your recipient's) e-mail system's attachment size limit. It also minimizes download time for recipients who may be checking messages away from their offices because large attachments are not automatically downloaded with the initial message.

The plug-in is compatible with Microsoft® Outlook® 2007, 2010 on Windows XP, Vista®, or 7.

Adobe has also introduced the ability to convert a file to PDF before you send it via SendNow. The number of conversions to PDF you get is based on your subscription level to Adobe's online services. We first covered the service levels and limitations of the Acrobat.com service last November. At that time, Adobe housed all of its online services under the Acrobat.com banner/URL. They have since split the various services among individual micro-sites.

A free verrsion of Adobe's SendNow service allows you to transfer files up to 100MB in size. The $9.99 month-to-month "Basic" option allows you to send files up to 2GB in size (among other features). The $190/year "Premium" option adds the ability to store up to 20GB of files on line, among other features.

Annual subscriptions to Adobe's CreatePDF service, offering unlimited online PDF document conversions, are available for $99.99/year (or $9.99/month on a month-to-month basis).

The Acrobat.com site is now focuses on online collaboration with its ConnectNow metting product and online storage/sharing, but also includes elements of the other products. For example, the $14.99/month "Basic" plan at Acrobat.com includes unlimited online PDF conversions, as well as 15GB of online storage, and the ability to host online meetings with up to 15 participants. A free option is also available.