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Google has announced it has opened up its new instant messaging service, Google Talk, to all other IM networks that utilize the XMPP protocol, which originally was developed for Jabber.
This enables Google users to communicate directly with users of Linux IM clients GAIM and Psi, Apples iChat, Jabber, Gizmo Project, Tiscali, Netease, Chikka, MediaRing and several others.
Any IM provider using XMPP (eXtensible Messaging and Presence Protocol) is now free to connect to Google Talk free of charge by following the specifications. Google eventually plans to add support for SIP (Session Initiation Protocol), which would enable cross-network calling, the company said.
Tom Hsieh, EarthLinks director of voice products and engineering, told DesktopLinux.com that “we believe this is an important first step toward a broader industry effort aimed at open communications among instant-message and voice providers.”
Earthlinks Vling voice service is already interoperable with all open-SIP networks.
“Were pleased that Google Talk will interoperate with EarthLinks Vling, and we hope this action encourages other providers to open their messaging systems and allow more people to take advantage of advanced Internet communication tools,” said Hsieh.