Pages

Saturday, March 27, 2010

Meebo launches free instant messaging client for iPhone

Filed under: , ,

Meebo for iPhoneMeebo has finally released its long-awaited all-in-one native iPhone IM client [iTunes link], and it looks like the wait was worth it. Until now I would have said that Beejive IM held the title of best instant messaging client on the iPhone, but Meebo's speed and usability moves it solidly ahead of Beejive.

Meebo maintains your list of connected instant messaging accounts on their server. You can create a Meebo account on the iPhone, but it's easier to log on to their homepage to create and manage your account there.

Once you're all set, you'll notice that Meebo memorizes your login information so that launching the app is as simple as tapping its icon on your home screen. Meebo launches very quickly, and then takes a moment to establish a connection with the Meebo servers. Once connected, your contacts will show up and you're free to chat. Meebo includes push notifications, which allows you to stay online even when you don't have the Meebo app running on your phone, just like Beejive does.

Meebo's free price is compelling enough, but being fast and easy to use makes it a winner. Compared to Beejive IM's lengthy list of configuration options, Meebo's settings page is sparse. If you like finely tuned control over almost every aspect of your instant messaging experience on your phone, Beejive may be a better fit for you. But Meebo seems to have nailed the Apple-like experience of just getting it right out of the gate.

I can't comment yet on the stability of Meebo's connectivity having only tried it briefly, but the app certainly gives a good first impression. It will be interesting to see how their communications hold up, as the Meebo iPhone app will very quickly become a very popular IM option on the iPhone.

[via Mashable]

Share StumbleUpon.com

Meebo launches free instant messaging client for iPhone originally appeared on Download Squad on Tue, 16 Feb 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

No comments:

Post a Comment