M-Web has launched what it describes as the first instant messenger service operating from within the country.
Aimed at SA`s SMS generation, the new instant messenger (IM) service offers entertainment and fun functions.
The software, dubbed QQ, is available from today for free download at www.qq.co.za and offers an integrated suite of real-time messaging and chat services. Unlike other IM services available to South Africans, says M-Web, the QQ platform operates from within SA, and promises a robust IM service to the local online public.
Although IM has been available for several years, it is being seen as the "next big thing" on the Internet. M-Web says this is partly because it is faster and more versatile than SMS, and offers real-time communication over the Internet with more privacy than standard Internet chat rooms.
The advantage of instant messaging over e-mail is that it is usually faster and can detect the presence of a user`s contacts as soon as they go online. It is also spam-free.
M-Web CEO Andrew Milne believes QQ opens new opportunities in the messaging field. "Instant messaging is growing at a phenomenal rate worldwide and adds huge value to online communication. IM is already eclipsing e-mail as the messaging tool of choice for millions of Internet users because of its powerful presence detection and real-time communication features.
"We believe that over time, instant messaging will become the preferred method of online communication, not just between PCs, but between all networked devices."
The QQ technology was sourced from Chinese company Tencent Computer Systems, one of the world`s big four IM service providers. With 30 million active QQ users every month, QQ supports up to three million simultaneous users during peak periods.
M-Web strategy director Bruce Cohen says one of QQ`s key features is its message history, which keeps a permanent record of all instant messages sent and received. QQ also allows users to send messages to friends who are offline - they receive the messages when they log-in.
The entertainment value in QQ comes in a variety of elements, from the signature penguin character and avatars that allow users to choose their own online personality, to message and chat room emoticons, screensavers, wallpapers, mobile phone graphics and QQ-branded merchandise offered in competitions and as giveaways.
"We`re positioning QQ as a lifestyle brand," says Cohen. "Drawing on the experience of Tencent, which has created a Disney-like power-brand in China, we aim to make QQ a vital and vibrant part of the South African online experience."
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