Several months ago, this blog had a post showcasing several online instant messaging services, who were utilizing the .IM, top level domain which is from the Isle of Man. One site, Imo.im, has taken a new step towards making online instant messaging a competitive alternative to downloading a client and installing on a PC.

What is the new service? A web-based video chat using the instant messenger client of your choice.

With no software to download and instant configuration of a webcam and microphone, using the video chat is a breeze. Simply instant message a buddy, for example I logged in to my AIM account, click the “start webcam” link and your webcam/audio device is automatically detected. Wait for your buddy to accept the invitation to video chat and you’re all set.

Imo.im is the perfect web-based application for those who cannot download programs due to account restrictions at the office, (this, of course is dependent upon how the permissions are set by the network administrator). For those of us who want to limit the amount of system resources used when having two or three open programs that perform the same service, and for persons who work from home and need to keep in contact with the home office, keeping the costs of long distance service down.

Have any of you tried this type of service? If not, would you and would it be for personal, or, business use?

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