CNET Editors' review
Yahoo Messenger 8 with voice capabilities is a step up from the already impressive older versions, and a must-download for regular users of YIM. The most notable update is the integration of messaging services with Windows Live, a process that allows you to add Windows Live users as simply as your Yahoo buddies. While this new feature isn't nearly as interoperable as Trillian, the plus side is users can still enjoy the lively emoticons and avatars, the extensive plug-in library developers can contribute to, and VoIP services exclusive to the Yahoo experience. Users should be forewarned that the download stub will finish installing the program online, and that the download includes bundled software that may install unwanted programs. In the preinstallation window, click over to custom install to deselect the extra browser services such as the Yahoo toolbar. We could also live without the all-consuming corporate sponsorship of the IMVironments and the heavy-handed branding in the avatar section (who uses those, anyway?), and it would be nice to see a link to hidden smileys in the emoticon drop-down, but these are minor niggles when weighed against the benefits of a user-friendly, feature-rich chat client that only continues to improve.
Watch the CNET video review of Yahoo Messenger:
Publisher's Description
From Yahoo:
Yahoo Messenger is a free service that allows you to see when friends come online and to send them instant messages. It also can alert you to new e-mail in your Yahoo Mail or Yahoo Personals accounts, or when you have upcoming events recorded in your Yahoo Calendar. Yahoo Messenger offers firewall support, a standby mode that minimizes the program until an Internet connection is made, the ability to save and print your conversations, and a tabbed interface that provides quick access to your favorite stocks, news, and sports scores. Other features include the ability to create a chat room automatically, stock price alerts, the ability to send messages to friends (even if they're not online when you are), a Quick Compact mode that hides the Messenger tools to maximize your viewing area, Messenger Themes, and voice chat, which allows you to talk for free to anybody else on the Internet. It also includes Launchcast Radio, Yahoo Games, and Yahoo Audibles. Using a Webcam, you can see who you're chatting with or view the Webcam of any Yahoo member who has granted you access.
The latest release of version 8.1 is a highly critical security fix that plugs a hole where an attacker could take over you computer.
Note: The Download Now link leads to a small setup file which should be saved to your desktop. Initiate the file and follow the directions to download the rest of the program and begin the installation process. Remain connected to the Internet to complete installation.
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All versions:
3.2 starsout of 1,355 votes
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Current version:
3.8 starsout of 69 votes
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My rating:
Write review
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"i love the product its awesome networking program"
Version: Yahoo Messenger 8.1.0.209
Pros
its amazing
Cons
thank you for offering the cool product
Summary
i do love eveything about this wonderul add it really help me when i needed the help
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"I LOVE IT!!!!!"
Version: Yahoo Messenger 8.1.0.209
Pros
I enjoyed using this version because there weren't any problems like I seem to have with 9.0!
Cons
Not even one!
Summary
If I was able to reinstall this version (instead of deleting it for the 9.0) I'd do it. As it is now, I'm only able to use the Web Yahoo Messenger.
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"The product is good."
Version: Yahoo Messenger 8.1.0.209
Pros
It is user's friendly.very easy for me to follow.
Cons
I called the Philippines ( cell phone) it is very hard for them to hear me but it is very clear for me to hear them.
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"EASY TO NAVIGATE"
Version: Yahoo Messenger 8.1.0.209
Pros
I LIKE IT BECAUSE IT'S FREE AND IT WORKS, AT THE BEGINING I WAS'T SURE, BUT AFTER I TRY & MAKE A CALL......IT WORKS REALLY WORKS.
Cons
WELL I ALWAYS LOVE TO TALK TO A LIVE PERSON WHEN I'M GOING TO DO SOMETHING & ASK QUESTIONS THAT WAY I'M SURE OF EVERYTHING.
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"Good"
Version: Yahoo Messenger 8.1.0.209
Pros
very wide
Cons
it doesnot load fast
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"Simply the best"
Version: Yahoo Messenger 8.1.0.209
Pros
Ease of use since its lower version. Free software is what I like most. Regarding with its interface...cool! Im using this software for almost three years and found no problems with it.
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"The Good Ol' Days"
Version: Yahoo Messenger 8.1.0.209
Pros
Yahoo Messenger delivers an attractive interface with the ability to chat with your friends on MSN as well.
Cons
While I was once a big fan of Yahoo Messenger, unfortunately it too has gotten bloated. I miss the days when I could download a new program and install it without having to click off every other program the company offers. Believe it or not if I wanted Yahoo Toolbar or Yahoo Music, I can go get them myself!
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"Great messenger."
Version: Yahoo Messenger 8.1.0.209
Pros
Lots of features.
Cons
Banner ads take up room on the messenger. Also Yahoo Messenger doesn't seem to save your ignore list. I keep finding myself having to reignore the same people. It seems really like a temporary ignore. This I don't really like, and find it annoying.
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"JUST THE COOL ONE...!"
Version: Yahoo Messenger 8.1.0.209
Pros
it's not just powerful and faster than it's previous versions but also than other messanger packages and services, too..
Cons
when it is started, it automatically signs in by the last name which is logined through this messanger, it's against privacy...
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"yahoo keeps freezing my comp"
Version: Yahoo Messenger 8.1.0.209
Pros
it looked nice
Cons
but kept freezing my comp.....
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