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| Meebo's Interface |
What is Meebo?
Meebo Instant Messenger is a web-based instant messaging (IM) application that allows users to chat with their friends, or “buddies,” on virtually any IM network through one fully capable and customizable “web-based interface.”
Meebo Messenger allows users to chat with friends on a variety of IM networks including: Yahoo!, AIM, Windows Live Messenger, Facebook, MySpace, Google Talk, and Jabber. Unlike its client IM counterparts, Meebo does not require its users to download any type of software, which allows for convenience and ease of use. Therefore, Meebo users who have access to a computer with an internet connection can easily login to Meebo, bring up their buddy lists, and start conversations with friends.
Setting up a Meebo account is relatively simple, fast, and free of charge! First, a new user must go to www.meebo.com/messenger and sign on to a supported IM network. Meebo Messenger will then open and prompt the user to sign into his or her account, thereby opening the Meebo Messenger Interface. Next, the user must add his or her existing IM accounts (keeping in mind that he or she must enter an appropriate username and password for each IM account) in an effort to establish connection between all instant messaging services.
It’s as easy as that!
What Features Does Meebo Offer?
The most obvious feature that Meebo offers is that it enables its users to connect to a variety of instant messaging applications on a simple web page interface. This interface resembles a computer desktop with chat windows that can be easily moved, minimized, and resized.
As far as chat capabilities go, instant messaging windows on Meebo let users set up buddy icons, determine whether or not they want to be available for chat, and include a brief message (similar to a Tweet) telling their friends what they are currently doing. Like most IM applications, Meebo allows users to turn sound notifications on or off. Meebo also includes capabilities for changing the font style, size, and color, inserting emoticons, viewing friends’ chat profiles, group chatting with friends using similar IM clients, and blocking friends.
Instant messaging windows let users chat with friends, send files, play games, and even view their chat history. This unique feature allowing Meebo users to view their chat history is amazing! Meebo users can go back to previous conversations and search through previous dialogues regardless of the IM platform used.
Meebo also lets its users customize the appearance of the background through either photographs or color selections. In addition, it allows users to choose to use its secure server (https://www.meebo.com), which provides enhanced security and encryption capabilities.
How Does Meebo Compare with Client IM Applications?
Meebo boasts many of the same features that its competitors use. Like client IM applications, Meebo allows users to customize their instant messaging experience through visual and auditory options. Also like their client IM counterparts, Meebo permits users to share files through chat windows, add and block friends, set up away messages, and group chat.
However, Meebo is unique in that it does not require users to download any type of software to use its application. It’s entirely web-based, making it much more convenient and universal across a variety of computers and networks. Instead of using multiple IM applications to chat with friends who each use different services, Meebo users can now utilize one application and interface to chat with all of their friends.
Meebo is also distinct in that it allows for secure chatting on a mobile device. Meebo Messenger applications are free on the iPhone, iPod touch, and Android. Those who do not have such mobile devices can simply enter Meebo’s URL into their web browsers to use the IM feature. In addition, Meebo’s widget allows users to install an instant messaging box on their blogs or web pages, allowing visitors to send them an instant message quickly and without leaving their site.
Advantages of a Web-Based Instant Messaging Application (such as Meebo)
- It’s extremely convenient and easy to use. You only need a computer and an internet connection to use Meebo.
- Minimal setup is required.
- Meebo supports a variety of client-based IM applications including Yahoo!, Google Talk, AIM, etc.
- Chatting can begin immediately if you know your friend’s user name. No invitations are required to chat!
- An optional Meebo notifier for the desktop can tell you when a friend signs on or when you have a new message.
- An enhanced security option allowing for encryption of messages and account information gives most users peace of mind when using Meebo.
- Users do not have to worry about firewalls or security settings which may negatively impact the functionality of client IM applications.
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