Microsoft tests Web-based IM – Internet News
Perhaps not the biggest news of the day, but it does speak to how IM is becoming more important. Being able to be at an Internet cafe and IM your friends or colleauges could be very helpful.
This certainly has benefits over Chatango, which though cool, isn't built for this.
I wonder how long it will be before there are multi-network web-based applications (e.g. Trillian, Miranda)?
Internet Business News from The Industry Standard – Microsoft tests Web-based IM – Internet News
Microsoft Corp. is testing a Web-based MSN Messenger client that will allow users to connect to the instant messaging (IM) service without the need to install a client application.
A Web-based client can be useful when installing the full client is not possible. This could be on a public computer in a library, at school or at a conference or when using a locked-down corporate system, for example.
Web-based instant messaging is not new. America Online Inc. (AOL) has long offered AIM Express, a Web client for its AOL Instant Messenger (AIM). Also, several third-party Web sites offer Web-based access to various instant messaging services, including MSN Messenger.