Zovine Messenger

Instant-messenging programs are only useful if other people use them. Smaller entrants such as Zovine have to find a hook--in this case, dating. The value-add is an extensive profile you can fill out, with slots for such disparate information as piercings and what topics you find boring.

When we tested the service, only a dozen people were online. However, you can search profiles for, say, a woman in Pennsylvania looking for a games partner and send the resulting matches an offline message. Users can add promising profiles to their Friends lists, but you can remove yourself from objectionable people's lists.

The interface lacks some basic features, such as the ability to create a chat room. You can, however, hide the ad panel completely. Paid members get access to the integrated PayPal feature, allowing money transfers among members, as well as the ability to charge money for shared files. Signing up triggers three e-mails, but neither closing your account nor uninstalling the program triggers spam. If you're looking for love online, Zovine might be worth investigating.