Following the efforts of MySpace to integrate Skype into its features, Facebook began testing an instant messaging platform that its subscribers can use. This instant messenger will be built into the webpages of Facebook. The feature allows Facebook users to chat with each other without downloading any instant messenger software. The Facebook messenger will be built upon Jabber, thus enabling users to add the service to multi-protocol instant messengers like Adium and Trillian.

There are already a large number of instant messengers available to different users all over the world. A lot of them have also closed shop because of non-patronage such as FriendVox and Social.IM, among others. Perhaps, given the large number of Facebook users, they will have another set of username and password to remember; not unless, Facebook’s instant messenger will be embedded directly in its pages just like the Web messenger of Yahoo.

Interestingly, however, AOL has also acquired Bebo and plans to integrate AOL Instant Messenger with this social networking site. It seems MySpace has had headway in integrating an instant messenger into its platform. With this slew of IM-social networking site integration, we will see which one becomes successful and which ones will not.

Tags: Current News · Facebook · MySpace · Skype · instant messaging · social networkingNo Comments