I've tried a few different instant messaging programs--bah humbug! ICQ is the best and the most fun.

One of their good features can also be one of their worst--customizing. There are so many choices -- security, which groups to join, do I set up my own chat subject, etc. that it is a little too much to try and learn at first. ICQ has tried to handle this by having a beginner mode--but most I know "want to get to the good stuff" and don't take advantage of it. However, once one has had an ICQ chat where the communication is instant, the other features begin to make sense and become fun to learn.

You can easily refer people to your web site if you choose or stay in the shadows--it is all up to you.

I haven't tried their gaming area but have heard it is pretty cool.

I've met several people through ICQ and have only occasionally been uncomfortable. No problem with ICQ, those are easily blocked.

I'm on my third beta version and have yet to take advantage of all the new features! ICQ is on the cutting edge of this technology and is now offering 30 second voice messages (short delay) as well as some free time with live chat.

Besides being able to change my "chat" colors and type style easily and to my tastes, the other feature I enjoy is being able to notify my friends when I'm busy without blocking out urgent messages. I can have ICQ up and running, see who is on line and not be bombarded with calls I don't want right now.

It's a friendly system, and so are most members!







Recommended: Yes