Internet - Instant Messengers (23)

Ricochet is a simple, text-only instant messenger built for security and anonymity. The program uses the Tor network hidden services feature to hide one's identity and connections are encrypted end-to-end. The program intentionally does not save chat history.

Note that unlike most IM tools you do not need to register a username, instead generating a unique address (e.g. "ricochet:rs7ce36jsj24ogfw"). Other Ricochet users can use this address to connect with you. These addresses can be generated and discarded as needed.

Cross-platform with clients available for Mac and Linux.

TeamTalk is a feature-rich conferencing application aimed at providing everyone a VoIP solution regardless of connection speed. Includes video conferencing, desktop sharing, file sharing, audio streaming, recording and much more. Audio push-to-talk and audio detection are both available. Features include quality controls, packetloss resistance, de-noising of outgoing audio, 3D positioning of sound and much more.

Note: This program may or may not function with public servers, meaning it will require a running server to connect with other users.

Pidgin Portable is a Pidgin version made by PortableApps.com. Pidgin is an easy-to-use multi-protocol instant messaging client with a tabbed interface, customizable sounds, themes and more. Supports a long list of networks including Jabber/XMPP, Gadu-Gadu, IRC, MicroFocus GroupWise Messenger, SILC, and more. It also includes support for many features such as file transfers, away messages, buddy icons, emoticons and typing notifications.

Plugins are also available to add more features including more networks, security, interface tweaks, and more. Themes are available via an additional download.

Pidgin is cross-platform with clients available for Mac OS and Linux; it supports 80+ world languages.

Other portable versions (note that these are oudated and may not function):

• Official Procedure to make the official client portable (fairly long)
• Script kindly contributed by rokth

aMSN is an open alternative to the Windows Live Messenger, mimicking its the look and feel while connecting to the MSN network. Features include offline messaging, voice clips, webcam support, custom emoticons, multiple sign-ins, file transfers, group and conferencing support, normal, and animated emoticons with sounds, chat logs, event alarms, and more.

Many plugins and skins are available to add features or change the appearance. Cross-platform with clients available for Mac, Linux, and more.

aMSN Portable is packaged in PortableApps.com Format for portable use alone or with the PortableApps.com Platform. Alternatively, X-aMSN is also available.

OpenTalk is an instant messaging / chat client with a skinnable interface. Supports voice chat, webcams, file transfers, and rooms of up to 100 people (which can be public or password-protected).

Note: Main site offline, linking to softpedia and archive.org.

SkypeContactsView is a useful tool for use with Skype to display a list of all contacts stored in the local database. Each contact includes name, display name, gender, ID, birthday, profile time, last online time, last used time, phone, emails, and more.

The program also allows you to export the contacts list into text, basic spreadsheet, xml/html file, or copy them to the clipboard to paste into Excel or other spreadsheet application.

TeamSpeak is a VoIP tool focused on efficient system and bandwidth usage. Although targeting online gamers, the program includes collaboration tools including file transfer, easy permissions, secure connections and a customizable interface. Other premium audio functions include surround sound capability and positioning. The program can also function offline, meaning you don't need the Internet to connect with other users on your local network.

Cross platform with clients available for Mac, Linux, iOS and Android.

Qualia LAN Messenger is a secure instant messaging and file transfer application for communication over a local network. It does not require a server or an internet connection. Also includes text formatting, event notifications, broadcast messages, chat rooms, themes, message logging, and more.

The program can function as an alternative to standard instant messaging tools or for ease of communication or file sharing when the Internet isn't available.

Cross-platform supporting Mac and Linux.

Brosix is a secure instant messaging and collaboration tool featuring voice, video, and text chat, whiteboard, and a private team network. Interface includes tabbed chat, chat history, spell check and anti-virus support.

Messages with other Brosix users are secured and can be sent when they are offline and delivered upon return. All communication with other Brosix users is encrypted and clients are available for Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, as well as via a Web Client to use the Brosix network with most browsers.

Note that the program requires creating a login using an email address and has been limited to only three users in the free tier.