WebProNews

Google Talk just got a new buddy. It's a Mogwai. Just kidding. It's open-source VOIP/instant messaging network Gizmo Project. Gizmo is the brainchild of SIPphone, who announced that six months of cooperation with Google has resulted in full interoperability between the networks and full connectivity between Gizmo Project and Google Talk users.

Until now, Google Talk has been unavailable to Mac users. Gizmo Project, available for free download at gizmoproject.com, is compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems. The interoperability will allow connectivity between operating systems.

Gizmo users can talk to Google Talk and other Gizmo users over Internet connections for free. Connecting with traditional phone users costs 1 cent per minute.

"Although Gizmo Project and Google Talk are competing instant messaging products this technical cooperation illustrates our commitment to open directories," said SIPphone CEO Michael Robertson.

"Our partnership will put pressure on closed networks like MSN, Yahoo!, Skype and AOL to connect to the rest of the world so a user won't be forced to juggle five different accounts on different networks to communicate with the world."

The interoperable features include:

Instant messaging, which allows users of Google Talk and Gizmo Project to communicate across networks.

Full address book management, including the ability to send invitations to members of other networks.

Presence (online, offline, away) so you can see if your contacts are available to chat.

Jason L. Miller is a staff writer for WebProNews covering technology and business.