Instant messaging programs, much like VHS and Beta, DVD+ and DVD-, and a host of other examples before them, don't inherently work with well with each other. Yahoo, AIM, ICQ, MSN, IRC... there are a plethora of IM programs available on the Web, and if you're like me you probably have friends on at least two or three of them.

It's frustrating to have to keep multiple IM programs open on your desktop just to stay in touch with your buddies. Now there's another way.

Trillian 3.0, from Cerulean Studios >www.ceruleanstudios.com