Google IM is live

Google has launched its foray into the instant messaging arena with Google Talk, its answer to Yahoo Messenger, AOL Instant Messenger, ICQ, MSN Messenger and several other services.

While Google's entry is a nice, simple client with a clean interface and open protocols, I can't help but be a little disappointed. Usually when Google comes late to the party, it offers something unique. Gmail blows away the competition -- and I say this as a longtime Yahoo Mail user who pays $5 a month for a decent spam filter! Meanwhile, Google Maps really changes the game in online maps. I still use Yahoo Maps for the easy-to-read printed directions, ability to store frequently-used addresses and SmartView feature for finding train stations near meetings in San Francisco. But Google Maps has a much nicer interface; I hope Yahoo copies it soon. And finally, Google is just a much better search engine. Case in point: it's easier to get to a specific address on Yahoo Maps through Google than through Yahoo itself!

That said, Google Talk falls a little flat. It has a nice voice feature, but so does Skype, Yahoo and a few others.

To its credit, Google is going with open standards and a pledge of interoperability, which counts for a lot. Maybe well see cool third-party development that will propel Talk above the others. We'll see.