Yahoo offers web-based instant messaging

Yahoo offers web-based instant messaging

Yahoo on Thursday launched a web-based version of its free instant messaging service for internet users who want to stay connected while away from their home computers.

The service is initially launching in India, Brazil, Malaysia, Philippines, Vietnam and the United States. It is to be made available in other countries through the rest of the year.

Yahoo Messenger for the Web lets people use the online search titan's service from any Internet-linked computer without needing to download or install software, as was the case previously.

The service is tailored for use by travelers, workers whose employers block software downloads to company machines, cyber-cafe dwellers and people who simply cannot afford their own computers.

"This really has great implications for the road warriors out there who are on the go," Yahoo senior vice president of communications Brad Garlinghouse said.

"People have become quite accustomed to a non-stop accessible life."

Industry statistics indicate that nearly a quarter of US Internet users go online from places other than home or work.

The new service is introduced as Yahoo vies with rivals Google and Microsoft for the devotion of Internet users whose visits can be parlayed into online advertising revenue.

Yahoo Messenger for the Web is available online at http://webmessenger.yahoo.com, according to the Sunnyvale, California-based Internet firm.