Yahoo's new messenger service

Yahoo introduced an updated version of its chat service that does not require any download and software installation. The service is still in beta mode and is called Yahoo Messenger for the Web. Using this service, users will be able to chat on any computer or mobile device that has access to the web. Yahoo's competitors Google, AOL, Meebo and eBuddy have all offered similar programs, but none of them have the number of users that Yahoo Messenger has.

The new Yahoo chat client differs from most other Web-based clients in that it is based on Adobe Systems' Flash. It works with most Web browsers and operating systems. While it lacks some of the bells and whistles found on the downloaded version (such as file transfer capability), Messenger for the Web includes tabbed windows that simplify multiple, simultaneous chatting. It also allows users to save their chats on Yahoo servers for later search and access.