You may or may have not have heard of a social network called So.cl — nevertheless, new updates have been announced and should be available for all users starting right now.

So.cl is a social network created by Microsoft's own Fuse Labs. At the moment, it is not meant to compete with the likes of Facebook, Twitter or Google Plus, but as things continue to improve, Microsoft may change its tune.

The new updates bring to the table the support of private messages, better post creation, improved site navigation and more features. Those are just a handful of the many improvements; the full list of features is below.

Simplified site navigation includes:

• create a post button
• discover (full site search and discovery)
• pinned menu for quick access to notifications, messages, setting, parties and about
• centered So.cl logo to refresh the page
• single click access to your profile
• feed pivots between following and everyone

Collections and Interests merged into one concept:

• collections curated by everyone (formerly Interests)
• collections curated by individuals, including private collections
• collection descriptions
• tags now done at the collection level rather than the post level and applied only by collection followers

Better post creation, featuring:

• drag and drop
• resize
• shuffle
• share to other social networks

Personal opportunity cards to help build your following feed

Private messages

In-line editing of profile information

Enhanced discovery, search and presentation of related content

Enhanced first-time user experience

So.cl first came on the scene in 2012. Users were invited to test the site out when it was in Beta, and since then, the social network has seen quite a few changes to its design and available features.

To gain access to So.cl, all is needed is a Facebook or Windows Live account. Choose carefully, for there is no way to combine both into a single account.