Yahoo has launched a beta of its instant messaging software that promotes VoIP and its new social network, writes CNET. The new version is designed to make free calling via computer easier, as well as sending messages to mobile devices, sharing photos or posting content to a personal web log. Yahoo Messenger, ranked second in the market, has an estimated 65 million users and will offer a free update during testing.

The move comes after America Online, with the number-one chat service, began testing software that integrates voice, data, mobile and video communication, as various forms of communication converge on IP networks.

Both companies are seeking to leverage large, loyal audiences to promote more usage of their network's services, increase the number of users, and generate ad revenue.