Video Instant Messaging

Improvements in video instant messaging technologies over the last few years is enabling many groups to take advantage of inexpensive options for getting together face-to-face even when the individuals are miles and miles apart. Similarly, the rise in the popularity of instant messaging (IM) for quick chats means the development of instant messaging devices that allow the sender to transmit a message without being tied to a computer. Desktop videoconferencing is a great way for businesses to interact with employees in different branches or regions or with faraway clients. Utilizing videoconference software and services saves the business both time and travel expenses. Family members that live far apart from one another can find it very inexpensive to set up webcams (cameras attached to a computer) that allow them to see each other on their monitors. Online clubs can hold meetings over the internet by taking advantage of video instant messaging software. Just about anyone who needs or wants to network with someone else who is further away than next door can find it convenient to set up a personal videoconferencing workstation. As with so many other technologies in the past, the cost has come down as the demand has grown and the product has improved.

Large computer manufacturers helped drive the demand by integrating video technology into operating systems and designing hardware that included a webcam with the monitor. By designing an easy-to-use, click-of-the-button application, the learning curve for new users was small and soon the new webcam owners were bragging to friends and relatives about how cool it was to actually see and hear another person on their screens. Of course, the limitation was that the other person needed to have a webcam, too. The new users urged friends and relatives to join in the fun of live chats. Naturally, early systems had some bugs, but both time and innovation are improving the quality of the video instant messaging systems. More and more people are leaving behind dial-up service in favor of faster connections. Newer computers also provide faster processing speeds which help improve the quality of what is seen on the monitor. Other technologies are improving other instant messaging devices. Though these may or may not offer a video component, they are providing the user freedom from a workstation or a laptop. More and more executives are finding themselves lost without their PDAs (personal digital assistants). With these devices, often referred to as palmtops because they fit into the palm of one's hand, the busy executive is able to access her contacts database, appointment calendar, email, and the internet. Though the range of options varies according to the sophistication (and price) of the particular PDA, most come with a screen that is larger than that of a cell phone, a small keyboard, and perhaps a stylus. An important feature is the ability to sync the information from one's work computer to the PDA. Some PDAs are also cell phones, which means one less gadget for the busy executive to carry.

There are other instant messaging devices available on the market for those who don't need all the functions of a PDA (or who do not want to pay either the upfront or monthly service charges). Cell phones with internet capability often come with the ability to send and receive instant messages. So do some high-tech watches. Parents may be interested in giving their children a handheld, wireless device that lets the youngsters chat with friends without tying up the family computer. These devices, though wireless, need to be within so many feet of a base station in order to work properly. However, the range is usually enough that the kids have some mobility. Of course, the parents can place the base station in a convenient location so that they are able to more easily monitor the children's IM activity. Parents need to be diligent in protecting children from the dangers of IM while teaching them to be responsible in how they interact with friends. Children sometimes need to be reminded of Paul's words to them: "Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord" (Colossians 3:20).

Technology experts often speak in terms of latency rates. This is the lag time between when a word is spoken and when that word is received. Of course, in real face-to-face conversation (what experts call real time), there is virtually no lag time at all. On landlines, the latency rate is so low that it's not perceived and a landline phone conversation feels like it's taking place in real time even when it's not. Humans are pretty good at detecting lag times. In fact, the experts say that a latency rate of only one hundred milliseconds can be detected. The lag time can be higher than this for cell phones which is why callers sometimes hear the echoes of their own voices. When video is jerky, it's because of the latency rate which can be due to lack of bandwidth, a slow processor, a slow internet connection, inadequate software, or a combination of two or more of these factors. Again, all these factors are being addressed with new advances in technology and with the general population replacing dinosaur computers and dial-up with faster models and high speed internet connections. Some vendors provide free software then charge monthly fee depending on the particular package of services that is purchased. A free trial may be available. Infrequent users can find inexpensive options that do not require monthly contracts. Whether one needs to set up a conference between employees in separate locations, a meeting for an online club, or a family chat, video instant messaging can provide the solution. With so many instant messaging devices to choose from, a computer may not even be needed.

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