Okay, so the title doesn’t make as much sense as it could, but basically I just wanted to rhyme. Today’s topic is all about instant messaging, and the better way to do it. There are two programs that I would like to talk about specifically – AdiumX (Mac OSX) and Trillian (Windows). In concept, both programs are very similar:
Both Allow:
- Chatting on multiple chat networks – AIM, MSN, Yahoo, ICQ, etc. without the individual programs
- Logging all conversations for later reference
- Customizing of the user interface
- Renaming of contacts
- File Transfers
Most people that I show these programs to are surprised that you can be on AIM without having to use crap from AOL, but I assure you that you can, and, in fact, should :).
Here are some of the features that I love best about each program.
AdiumX:
- The buddy list syncs with your address book (Real names are listed instead of screen names)
- Extremely customizable look and feel
- Tons of plug-ins, skins, message windows, etc
Trillian:
- Audio/Video Chat
- Tons of skins and plug-ins
- Multiple identities for multiple users
If you use any instant messenger, I highly recommend AdiumX and Trillian over the original programs.
P.S. If you would like your AdiumX contact list to look like the screen shot above, download this, unzip it, and double click on each file to install.