We're beta testing a new feature for VideoSift called IM, for Instant Messaging. Whenever you view many pages on VideoSift, you'll notice a little box pop up in the bottom-right corner of your window.

This box will display for you all the other members currently on the same page as you and will allow you to send instant messages back and forth. The idea is that people can have a light, less formal discussion amongst themselves while they are watching a video or checking out a Sift Talk post.

IM is meant to be only for fleeting messages. That is to say messages you send will only persist for a couple of minutes on your current page because it's meant to be provide a means for real-time conversation.

During this initial beta testing phase, we're making it available to all VideoSift members excluding probationary members (to prevent spam). Once we officially launch this feature, however, it maybe restricted to charter members and a star level that is yet to be determined.

Please have fun with it and let us know your opinions and suggestions in the comments below. Just do not abuse any IM box by flooding it with text, pimping (aka. spamming) your videos, attacking other members, etc. Misuse of IM will lead to tighter restrictions and less access to the general VideoSift community.

Update:
Sending IM messages is currently enabled for Charter members and non-proby members and proby members who have been sifting for a long time.