BlackBerry gets two IM services

BlackBerry users will soon have access to instant messenger (IM) services from America Online (AOL) and Yahoo, MobileBurn reports.

Future versions of the BlackBerry will come pre-loaded with a graphical version of Yahoo`s IM software, which allows users to access their contacts lists and conduct simultaneous chat sessions.

The BlackBerry will also gain support for AOL Instant Messenger and ICQ, with mobile access to buddy lists and contact lists. AOL users will also be able to use their e-mail accounts via the BlackBerry. Availability and pricing will depend on mobile carriers.

Instant messaging is becoming increasingly popular among business users, who constitute the bulk of the BlackBerry`s users. The addition of instant messaging also helps the BlackBerry compete against a number of new smartphones designed for messaging.

The man responsible for sending a malicious e-mail program that caused Microsoft WebTV customers to call the 911 emergency service without their knowledge has been sentenced to six months in prison.

WebTV, which is now known as MSN TV, is a Microsoft service that allows subscribers to browse the Web and connect to the Internet through their television sets.

According to PCWorld, David Jeansonne pleaded guilty in February to charges of intentionally causing damage to computers and causing a threat to public safety.

He was sentenced on Monday by US District Judge Ronald Whyte and will have to spend an additional six months of home detention and pay $27 100 to Microsoft after he is released.

Google yesterday released a free tool that allows businesses to add or update business listing information - such as operating hours and addresses - that appears within its local search results.

Google says its new Local Business Centre tool is available to US businesses, including those that do not operate an Internet site, potentially expanding the reach of its service.

According to Reuters, local search is one of the most competitive markets in the booming Internet search industry, as providers eye potential profits from search advertising.

The Kelsey Group predicts that the US advertising market will reach $5.1 billion by 2009, with local search accounting for $3.4 billion, or two-thirds of the total.