Google is talking. I tried Google Talk this morning and sound quality was really very good.  Almost better than Skype in that there was less amplification of ambient sound. Crystal clear.  Many thoughts swirling in my mind right now - so here is my ramble.

I wonder whether it uses as much bandwidth as Skype does.  Must try it with a video application - is a good user test.  More questions .. is voice and chat encrypted in Google Talk? They have just opened Gmail out to the public - so expect many more users.  Will it work from mobile devices - I can browse Google and get gmail today on the mobile phone - will I be able to use GoogleTalk to chat too? How viral will it get when integrated with their browser, Google Desktop, Orkut, etc?  Will this kill Skype as it is a stand-alone application whereas Google has become a way of life for internet users with its suite? Google then move from content to conversation? How open will their API be, will they encourage and reward independent developers or leave them frustrated? 

Really interesting to see how it all emerges.