Secure messaging, public IM support, Launch Site feature...
New in v5.0:
Entirely new design, secure messaging, public IM support (chat with users of a
variety of popular IM networks, including Yahoo, AOL, AIM, MSN, and iChat), synchronized status for personal and business accounts, Global Address Look-up, redesigned preferences, multiple file transfer; Release Notes - Last Updated: 08.09.05
Upgrade Meter: 5
New in v4.0: Microsoft .NET Alerts (receive info like stock alerts in the Messenger, pager, or e-mail inbox), ability to join chats, ability to make worldwide phone calls from your PC, ability to arrange contacts into groups, emoticon drop-down list; Release Notes
Upgrade Meter: 5
New in v3.6.0039: Automatic update feature, ability to share Contact List with friends, increased number of contacts (to 150 max), various bug fixes; Release Notes Upgrade Meter: 4
New in v3.5: Cheap world-wide phone calls (free U.S. phone calls), MoneyCentral tab for tracking stocks, improved connectivity with firewalls, various bug fixes; Release Notes Upgrade Meter: 4
New in v3.0: Voice chat support (with PC to PC and PC to Phone capabilities), file sharing capabilities, emoticons, cell phone and pager connectivity options, support for Passport Public Profiles, Kid Passports for those under 12 years old; Release Notes Upgrade Meter: 5
Pros: Streamlined interface, excels at sending instant messages, freeware
Cons: Lacks some advanced features found in competing clients, inferior search tool
