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The latest version of this classic chat client expands on its signature feature plug-ins, called Xtraz. Installation is quick, and the clean interface has that rounded, air-brushed look that's so popular these days. Basic chatting features are easily accessible from the main menu tab, and clicking the Xtraz button slides out a sidebar with a slew of additional tools. The messaging window is equally intuitive, with quick buttons for chatting, adding users, and searching the message history. You'll also find an additional Xtraz sidebar with appropriate messaging tools, such as options for sending files or greeting cards. A preferences toolbar lets you change the interface color, but ad banners occupy both the main interface and the messaging window.

Customizing the Xtraz sidebars is a snap: just click on the Xtraz center tab from the main interface and add or remove plug-ins to your heart's desire. Personalizing your ICQ profile also is easy, and chat functionality is excellent, giving you everything you would expect from an IM client. ICQ also supports audio and visual chat, as well as SMS messaging. Push2Talk is a handy new Xtra, letting you voice chat with friends walkie-talkie style. Also new is Buzz It, a feature that lets you send messages to multiple recipients at once and tZers, which lets you send snappy little Flash movies to your friends. A few other notable additions include split-screen compatibility, IM forwarding, and integrated Google searching. In enhancing its already rich feature set, ICQ has definitely increased its standing among its many competitors.