EBuddy
eBuddy was the first independent web-based instant messaging client, which supports multiple IM services, including MSN Messenger, Yahoo and AIM (AOL). eBuddy is a web2.0 IM solution for users who are unable or unwilling to download software.
On October 26th 2006, a press release reported eBuddy received venture capital funding from Lowland Capital Partners, a Dutch VC Group.
An audio interview with the CEO of eBuddy on November 7th 2006 confirmed that the business model is based on online advertising.
Web version
Features:
- Secure login option
- Sign on invisibly
- Tab Chatting – similar to tab browsing from Mozilla Firefox.
- Multiple IM networks – It is however not possible to log onto all clients using one interface.
- Custom emoticons
- Custom display pictures/avatars
- Sound notification
Unsupported features:
Mobile version
Features:
- Sign on invisibly
- Emoticons
- Change user settings
Unsupported features:
- Multiple IM network login
- Custom emoticons
- Group conversation/chat
Updates & Modifications
*Integration of AJAX into E-Messenger in September 2005 for better user-experience.
*August 2006 US Server platform set up for a quicker and more relaible service in North America.
History
Paulo Taylor is the inventor of eBuddy. The idea came to life when he made a bet with a colleague; in which he said he could get MSN to work on a mobile phone. Working full-time at a Telecom company, Paulo spent his after hours working on a mobile MSN application. After several weeks, he won the bet and uploaded the application on a server. It was here that visitors asked if he could make a web version of the application. As sser traffic spurred, Paulo decided to take the idea to the next level.
On September 9th 2003, Paulo together with two partners created Everywehere-MSN.com. Microsoft however claimed the domain name and shortly after on December 4th 2003 the domain was changed to e-Messnger.net. On May 1st 2004, e-Messenger became incorporated. On June 1st 2006, e-Messenger was renamed to eBuddy.
eBuddy is a privately funded Dutch company. It has an office in Amsterdam, the Netherlands.