Software Update: Gizmo for Windows 3.0.0.260 beta

The Gizmo Project released the first beta release from the 3.0 branch of its VoIP program Gizmo for Windows yesterday. Unlike Skype, which uses a closed source protocol, conversations go through the open IETF standard SIP. Other comparisons with Skype are valid; the software is available for Windows, Linux and Mac OS X, but the latter two are slightly behind in terms of development. Furthermore, calls with other Gizmo users are free and calls to a fixed or mobile connection can be made for a small fee compensation. The release notes for version 3.0 are as follows:

We believe Gizmo Project 3.0 to be the most feature rich, open standard voice and IM communicator available. Along with introducing a host of new features, Gizmo Project 3.0 now offers meta-voice capabilities, enabling free calling to Yahoo Messenger, Google Talk, Windows Live, and Gizmo Project users. Gizmo Project 3.0 can now call more users for free than any other VoIP service.

Simply type the Gizmo ID or username of the person you want to call. For example, @gmail.com, @hotmail.com, or @yahoo.com.

More Gizmo Project 3.0 features:

• Group Chat – Create a group chat and talk with all of your friends at once. To create or join a group chat select “Join Group Chat” under the “Contacts” menu.
• Real-time File Sharing – Share your favorite pictures and files with family and friends by clicking on the “Send File” button in the IM window. You can also send a file by selecting “Send File…” under the Contacts menu.
• Custom Avatars – Your avatar is the picture that you show to the world. Click the “Change” button in the “Profile” window, browse your folders to find the picture you would like to use as your avatar.
• Tabbed Chat Interface – Tab between all of your current chats within one convenient window.
• Chat History – Chat history allows you to save all your past IM conversations. IM chats often contain important information and now it’s easily accessible.[break]