Talk for Free

Google has launched a new service called Google Talk which allows users to make free calls over the internet. Google Talk is a downloadable Windows application, but MAC users can take advantage of it through iChat. Only Gmail account holders will be able to access the service. To sign up, users must log onto the website and enter their mobile phone number. They then receive an invitation code via a text message which allows them to open an account. Once they are on Gmail, users can make voice calls, send emails or instant messages (IMs). The service has launched in the US, but a Google spokesman said no timescale was in place yet for its global roll-out. There is another very popular service that already have all those functions (and more) and it is called Skype.

Comments

[Antony Shen]

I really can't see what's so special about Google Talk. Google Talk's Jabber network does not interoperate with other Jabber network.
It does not have video chat either. iChat users can have audio and video chat with AIM and Jabber network.

[TarValanion]

You don't need to give your phone number to get Google Talk. Neither a Gmail account. You just need to know someone who uses it and can invite you.