Digital Lifestyles tried one out, and came away impressed, both by the Siemens S440 handset they tried out (which, of course, still works without Skype), and by the M34, which, in addition to Skype, allows you to IM with your phone, and even control your PC to some extent (so that, for example, you can use your phone as an iTunes remote).

ENGADGET: Siemens' M34 USB adapter for Skype reviewed

You don't have that kind of flexibility with IM, nor do I think should you - it's just the wrong medium for that kind of interaction.

ENGADGET: Interview with David E. Weekly, Founder of Coceve and www.IMsmarter.com

When you receive an urgent message, AwayFind will notify you with a call, SMS, IM, DM (Twitter), or delegate the message to someone you specify.

FORBES: Here are my top picks this month!

You can visit HHS.gov today to connect with a smoking cessation expert via IM or phone, use the online step-by-step quit guide, or sign up for SmokefreeTXT a texted based smoking cessation program.

WHITEHOUSE: The White House Blog: The President