Google is first to merge e-mail, IM
Google is breaking down the barrier between e-mail and instant messaging, combining its Gmail and Google Talk services to create a central messaging hub, an industry first.
People who use the Gmail service will be able to send and receive instant messages directly from their e-mail mailboxes, without having to start a separate application or open a separate browser window. The Mountain View company is rolling out the new feature in stages, starting Monday evening.