Google Launches VoIP/IM Beta

A new service from Google will link its
instant-messaging service to Gmail, letting users
contact each other over email, IM or a VoIP call. A downloadable program called Google Talkwill allow users to chat via IM and then talk to
contacts on Google Talk by clicking on a ‘call’ button in an open chat
window or by clicking on the phone icon next to names on the contact
list. Digital Lifestyles comments:

"Google has slapped down a big leathery gauntlet to the communications
industry with the beta launch of its instant messaging service with
voice-over-IP capabilities today"

Google Talk
Digital Lifesyles