Imo

Popular programs in Instant Messaging

What is Imo

Imo is a program that allows you to instant message and video chat with people who use other instant message programs like AIM or MSN.

Imo is an application that is meant to be an all-encompassing instant message client. It can be used right in a web browser and eliminates the need for juggling different instant messager services.

This program also allows you to make video calls for free over the internet, no matter how far away the other person is. There are no charges or limits of any kind. Voice calls are also available. The quality is good but not great.

This version of Imo is for desktop computers. It is adapted from the Imo app. It allows you to connect with users of AIM, Facebook, MSN, Skype and Steam all at the same time.

The fact that Imo can actually connect to Facebook Messenger is a big plus for many people. Imo lets you talk with everyone on Facebook while simultaneously connecting with people on other platforms.

Imo also gives you the ability to create chat groups to bring friends from different programs into one conversation. In it, you can save groups of friends for group chats. You choose which service to contact them with, and Imo sends them an invite. Your contacts will have to jump over to Imo to participate in the chat.

The user interface lets you put the program into a small window, making it look more like AIM. At one time, Imo could only be used in a full window and it was quite awkward if you were trying to do two things at once.

All options are presented in a very simple manner. Everything is intuitive enough that even those who aren't very computer savvy shouldn't have trouble using Imo. The buttons to call someone are very clear and easy to locate.

The Imo network lets you meet new people on instant messenger, hearkening back in some ways to the old wild west of AOL chat rooms. The entire left side of the Imo display is devoted to this chat network, which is good if you are interested in that option. It even suggests people you can chat with.

Imo does not have the ability to use or see emoticons and is something of a bare bones product. It gets the job done but doesn't have many frills like various fonts and colors.

Imo is great if you want to be able to communicate with friends who use different instant messaging programs for free. The downside is that in order to fully utilize the program, your contacts will need to have Imo installed as well. It's free so it isn't that big of a deal, but some of your friends might not want the hassle.

Pros

• Simple but effective
• Webcam video chat
• Extensive social network of Imo users

Cons

• Image sharing a bit clunky
• Can't group chat across messenger services
• Can't merge contacts