ICQ

Pros

• Easy setup
• Vibrant interface
• Social network integration

Cons

• Video and text chats should be in same window.

ICQ is an instant messaging application that lets you chat, play games and share files with friends. Prior to the release of MSN Messenger, ICQ used to be the most popular instant messaging platform. ICQ has seen many changes and upgrades ever since.

The setup is quick and takes no more than 2-3 minutes of your time. You also have the option to import contacts from social services, such as Windows Live, Gmail and Facebook.

ICQ offers an attractive interface that can be personalized to the needs of the user. It still retains many of its characteristics sounds and features.

ICQ is a popular platform for sending instant messages. A variety of smileys make the chats more expressive and lively. Other options include customizing font and color of text. You can also play a variety of games with your friends. File sharing is fairly simple. Conversations can be saved to message history.

ICQ enables video chats in the latest version. The video results are very good, but it would be more appropriate to merge the text and video windows together. In the current adjustment, it's more difficult to switch between video and text messages.

It integrates seamlessly with social networks, such as Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. Using this option, you can chat with friends from other social networks.

ICQ can also be used to as an email client. After configuring your email account, you can start receiving and replying to your emails.

With the multi-instance login option, you can stay connected across all platforms, including web, PC and mobile.

ICQ allows users to make cheap phone calls to landline and mobile phones across the world. There are times when your friends aren’t logged on to the Internet. Making a low-cost phone call is then a good way of getting in touch.

Pros

• Easy setup
• Vibrant interface
• Social network integration

Cons

• Video and text chats should be in same window.