In a bid to close the gap on its competitors Skype Technologies and Microsoft, Yahoo! will today unveil a new version of its instant messaging program that contains computer-to-computer voice capability.
Voice chat is becoming a standard feature of instant messaging program, but Yahoo has been a relative laggard in this area.
Skype's voice over internet protocol software functions like an instant messaging program, while Microsoft's MSN also allows users to conduct voice conversations.
Yahoo! has been offering voice capability in beta mode since May 18. The new version will go live from 12pm today.
Yahoo!'s director of instant messaging, Frazier Miller, said there were no plans to offer computer-to-telephone conversations but this would be considered in the future.
Skype allows computer users to dial fixed-line and mobile networks, and in certain markets allows phone users to dial a Skype computer account.
Mr Miller described Skype's program as a great voice application but weak in other areas, such as offering emoticons to users and ways to easily exchange files.