Pidgin

Pidgin is an instant user friendly massaging client. The software is actually based on a library named Libpurple. Libpurple supports many commonly used instant messaging services. Users can log in to various services with this one application, which means one can chat with all our contacts in Google, Yahoo, and MSN at the same time. The program runs on any modern version of Windows and also on other operating system. In one word Pidgin (also known as Gaim) is a multi-protocol messaging client.

Features

Pidgin supports many operating systems, such as, Windows, UNIX, Linux and many more. Because of Libpurple, the software provides a graphical front end using GTK+. It has message encryption facility like, message encryption for any types of protocol. It also provides end-to-end message encryption. The software has some standard tools which is very important for instant messaging protocol, such as, file supported protocol, chat and conversation log in, contact list etc.

The most important optional feature of this application is the Tabbed conversation. The IM window of Pidgin includes formatting tools, edit box and message window. One can also add the contacts to the “Buddy List” window and also to the IM window. It also includes spell checking, different type of themes, emoticons, video conversation using XMPP protocol and on-action automated scripts named “Buddy Pounces” to reach the users in customizable path.

Comparison

There are many instant messaging services protocol in the market right now but Pidgin has more than 3 million users, which certainly proves its credibility and as well as popularity. Pidgin consists of many chat networks, such as, Google talk, ICQ, AIM, Jabber, Yahoo!, MSN, Gadu-Gadu, IRC, QQ, MySpaceIM, Zephyr, SILC, Bonjour, GroupWise, Sametime, SIMPLE, MXit etc. It can also support many more with plug-ins. Pidgin also supports many other aspects like file transfers, away messages etc. This is surely an all-rounder app for messaging and staying in touch with people.

Conclusion

Pidgin is available in many languages, which is a very good aspect for an Instant messaging protocol. The application also has the capabilities of multiple file transferring, cancel transferring and direct support. All of these make this software even more worthy. It is basically a chat program which is very easy to use and saves the space of user’s hard disk and more importantly it does not contain any annoying ads like similar offerings from rival developers.