My Board

Today, Wednesday 24th, Google confirmed speculation that it would be releasing an IM client. Named Google Talk, the program allows you to send an instant message or call anyone for free.

The limitation is that, due to the beta condition, a GMail account is required - although these are becoming increasingly easier to get. (I have 49 invites, so don't be shy if you want one)

Google Talk uses the Jabber protocol, so any client supporting this protocol can be used to send Instant Messages (Google's client is supposedly the only option for calls).

Contrary to rumour, there are no ads anywhere on Google Talk which is defiantly a pulling power over something like MSN Messenger. Personally, I don't plan on giving up my MSN account just yet, as Google Talk is very limited at the moment. Knowing Google, I don't think this will last for long.

I doubt MSN are celebrating this release, but I certainly am.

Nice on Google /good.gif\' class=\'bbc_emoticon\' alt=\'(Y)\' />

My opinions are exactly like vultures.

Also, if you need invites I also have around 45-50 I can send out.

I have 50 on one account and 50 on my other /bigwink.gif\' class=\'bbc_emoticon\' alt=\';)\' />

Rumours have been flying around ever since gmail was released. If the quality and usability of any other google products (se, mail, google earth etc.) are anything to go by, this is going to give microsoft some serious competition.