radiusIM – Meebo I can’t find you
Heavy AJAX, nearly zero page loads, proximity notification of fellow users, and multi-protocal support. Sound enticing? I thought so. A new startup service known as radiusIM offers all of that into a convenient web based service. In an effort to convince myself that Meebo is getting a little blasé, I gave radiusIM a run through the night and am convinced that I have found a replacement web-based solution for all of my instant messaging needs.
The Good:
- AJAX means no page refreshes.
- Locate nearby radiusIM users and chat the night away.
- Mult-protocol support including AIM, MSN, Google Talk, and Yahoo.
- Optional chat logging on “secure” servers.
- Location awareness based on your current cookie.
The Bad:
- No browser support for Safari or Opera – radius recommends that users download Firefox.
- Interface sluggishness – most likely attributed to server load?
In order for contacts to be visible within your vicinity, they’ll need to register a radiusIM account and be added to your contact list. A strong competitor for Meebo as long as the service continues to mature.
