The world's worst-kept secret became official today with the low-key unveiling of Google Talk, which launches Google into the exciting worlds of telephony and instant messaging. So what does it mean? First, talk of Google buying Skype can now be dismissed, particularly given Google is reportedly in discussions with Michael Robertson's SIPphone, which isn't compatible with Skype. (By the way, Skype Journal's Stuart Henshell provides a spirited defense of Skype.) Second, Google is now in even deeper compettition with Microsoft - a battle that will get more interesting as Google strives for more control of PC users with applications such as its new desktop, which has been described as the middleground between an OS and browser. The free Google Talk service is a baby step because it only allows for PC to PC calls but the power of Google's brand should be cause for concern in the boardrooms of Skype, AOL, Yahoo and Microsoft.
After downloading the software, one of first things you notice is the tight integration with GMail, which is now open to anyone after Google lifted its invitation-only status. It struck me, however, that being able to test Google Talk means I have to find someone else who has the software. I wonder how many IM users are willing to leave AOL, Yahoo or MSFT for Google Talk? Google must be working hard to get IM interoperability ASAP. Update: Hey, I found someone to Google Talk with. Tris Hussey and I had a 10-minute cross-Canada conversation - he's on Salt Spring Island; I'm in Toronto. The voice quality is not too bad while the IM client is your basic vanilla flavor. Now, if we could find some more friends using Gmail/Google Talk, that would be very cool. MasterMaq got early an jump on Google Talk last night but came aware less than blown away. Check out John Battelle's site for some comments, the Google press release and links to a bunch of reviews.
By the way, Silicon Beat says there's speculation Google could be launching Google Finance soon to compete against Yahoo Finance.