Trillian 3.1.10.0

Trillian is a chat client that supports multiple protocols, including AIM, ICQ, MSN, Yahoo! Messenger, and IRC. It features a skinnable user-interface, which is capable of audio and video chat, supports file transfers, group chats, and encrypted messaging (AIM, ICQ). You can even use it for connecting simultaneously to multiple accounts from the same chat network.

In order to connect to messaging networks, the program uses several plugins, which can be downloaded and installed automatically. The program's options are easy to configure by using the Preferences window. The program's window is structured very well.

Like any other messaging software, Trillian displays your list of contacts in its main window. This list can be customized to sort, hide, or show your contacts just the way you want. Besides showing your contacts, the main window also displays your current status, which can be modified by clicking on it. It took me a couple of minutes to understand how to manage each connection separately after defining it. There are a couple of circles, each colored differently, which can be used to set the properties of a specific connection to a chat server.

Pluses: You can use Trillian to define away messages or to mute all the sounds when you leave your computer. Another plus is that Trillian's main window supports transparency and docking.

Drawbacks / flaws: Although I could chat with my friends who use ICQ, MSN, or Yahoo!, I wasn't able to files to any of them. There's no support for Skype, AIM or Google Talk.

In conclusion: This program was created for interoperability between chat networks. MSN and Yahoo! have already joined forces, so I think that after a while people will be able to choose any chat client and use it, on almost every chat network. Trillian Basic's days might be numbered. However, I am looking forward to seeing the new version called "Trillian Astra".

version reviewed: 3.1 (Basic)