Instant messaging is a text-based form of real-time communication. A variety of instant messaging systems exist, many of which are based on system-specific protocols, thus reducing opportunities for inter-system communication. However, some systems, such as XMPP (the eXtensible Messaging and Presence Protocol, formerly known as Jabber), are able to interact with other messaging systems via gateway services.
Software[]
Multi-protocol clients
Single-protocol chat clients
- Windows Live Messenger (formerly MSN Messenger)
- Yahoo! Messenger