Meebo

How many instant messaging clients do you have installed on your computer? With so many different protocols and services in existence, it’s hard for people to use only one application when they need to get their IM fix. There are some great all-in-one options out there, but from my experience, the majority of users still have at least three clients installed on their systems. If your friends are scattered all over a bunch of different services, then you’re required to support what they use. Instead of firing up a bunch of programs to talk to people when you’re at home or on the road, just use Meebo.

This service really surprised and impressed me. It allows you to use a single Web site to talk to all of your buddies. Meebo supports the major IM applications, and logging in is as easy as ever. My contact list was imported perfectly, and conversations worked nicely. The site is in the alpha stage, but even with the quirks (and trust me, there are some), it just feels good to use. Their privacy information needs a little help, but they're on the right track. It's nice to be able to open up your Web browser and have all of your messaging needs right at your fingertips.

Instant messaging software? What's that?