Instant messaging (IM) is a form of communication over the Internet, that offers quick transmission of text-based messages from sender to receiver. In push mode between two or more people using personal computers or other devices, along with shared clients, instant messaging basically offers real-time direct written language-based online chat. The user's text is conveyed over a network, such as the Internet. It may address point-to-point communications as well as multicast communications from one sender to many receivers. More advanced instant messaging allows enhanced modes of communication, such as live voice or video calling, video chat and inclusion of hyperlinks to media.
Read more about Instant Messaging: Definition, Overview, History, Clients, Interoperability, Mobile Instant Messaging, In Web Browser, Friend-to-friend Networks, IM Language, Business Application, Review of Products, Risks and Liabilities, Security and Archiving, User Base
Famous quotes containing the word instant:
““Heaven nor hell shall impede my designs,” said Manfred, advancing again to seize the princess. At that instant the portrait of his grandfather ... uttered a deep sigh and heaved its breast. ... Manfred ... saw it quit its panel, and descend on the floor with a grave and melancholy air.”
—Horace Walpole (1717–1797)