The latest version of IBM's Lotus Notes messaging client
now includes instant messaging and will be available worldwide at
the end of the month with licences starting at $90 per
user.
The Lotus Notes 6.5 and Domino Web Access 6.5 clients will allow
users to see whether colleagues are available online and to
exchange messages directly from their inboxes or other
collaborative applications, such as the calendar.
By integrating instant messaging with e-mail into Lotus Notes
6.5, IBM is pursuing a course similar to competitors such as
Microsoft.
The integrated Lotus Notes Instant Messaging function is based
on IBM's Sametime software.
Lotus Notes 6.5 customers in the US with maintenance agreements
can receive a free 20-licence pack for IBM Lotus Instant Messaging.
This offer, however, will not be available to customers in the
Europe, Middle East and African (EMEA) region.
John Blau writes for IDG News Service