Chat is method or process of communicating or chatting that is
done over the Internet. In a broader way it refers to any kind of communication over the Internet. But to be more specific it refers to the direct one-to-one or group text based communicating procedure that can be done with the help of specific tools like several instant messaging applications including computer programmes, talkers, Internet relay chat, etc.
Most of the well known Internet service providers offer free online chat facilities. A large number of online chat or Internet chat providers are now demanding a service charge. Several providers have started to show strong revenue streams from the for-pay services. The fore-pay online chat services are increasingly making profits with the advent of the high-speed broadband.
For its convenience and easy operation online chat has started to replace the conventional means of communication like letters, faxes, memos, telephoning, etc. This instant messaging system undoubtedly attracts all teenagers.
Types of Online chats
- Live Chat: Live chat is the standard online chat facility provided by several Internet services. Instant messenger application is the tool used fro live chat.
- Relay Chat: Relay chat is a form of “synchronous conferencing” which provides many-to-many as well as one-to-one communication facilities.
- Voice Chat: Voice chat is the most modern form of online chat. There are several online messengers that provide the benefit of voice chat. Yahoo Voice Chat is the most popular voice chat facility available.
- Video Chat: When a person is using voice chat along with a webcam, it gives the appearance of a video being played, and thus it is called video chat.
