Yahoo! has rolled out the latest version of its instant messaging
software, which has added Webcam support, offering broadband users
faster video streaming and higher resolution.
Yahoo! Messenger 5.5 offers users the ability to communicate in
real-time video of up to 20 frames per second, with two window
sizes and the ability to zoom. The small window size offers 160
pixel by 120 pixel resolution, and the large window offers 320
pixel by 240 pixel resolution.
With the new instant messenger software, also called Yahoo!
Messenger Super Webcam, the company also hopes to distinguish
itself from rivals such as America Online and Microsoft, which have
been slower to adopt interactive instant messaging
capabilities.
The company said it has experienced rapid adoption of the original
rollout of its Messenger Webcam software, introduced last June,
which now claims more than six million users.
In addition to enhancing Webcam features, Yahoo! has added
personalisation features, such as the ability to choose theme
background environments for the instant messaging window, more
IMVironment options, plus animated emoticons that allow users to
express eye-rolling, raising an eyebrow and applauding hands.
The top spot for instant messaging goes to AOL's AIM service,
followed by MSN Messenger, with Yahoo! in third place, according to
researcher Jupiter Media Metrix.
Yahoo! Messenger can be downloaded for free online at
http://messenger.yahoo.com