Microsoft has launched the LifeCam VX-5000, a webcam with a bendable attachment base that apparently molds to virtually any surface — from a notebook to a desktop — so users can take it anywhere.

The LifeCam VX-5000 is available with "Cool Blue", "Lucky Green" or "Fire Red" accents for added funk and features MSN Photo Swap, that lets consumers share digital photos mid-video so as to see real-time reactions as both callers view the pictures.

The VX-500 has a VGA sensor offering 640 x 480 video resolution and 1.3-megapixel still photography, there's a built-in unidirectional microphone with acoustic noise cancellation and pan, tilt and 3x digital zoom features.

Microsoft has also launched the LifeCam VX-500 and the LifeChat LX-2000 - two "affordable" products, with a compact design. The LifeCam VX-500 is a versatile webcam designed to fit on notebooks and desktop PCs while the LifeChat LX-2000 is a full-size headset that folds down into a small, portable shape.

The LifeCam VX-5000 will be available in June for $49.95, the VX-500 will be $16.95 and LifeChat LX-2000 will be $29.95, both available in May.