OK, according to the script here's where I'm supposed to post a glowing review of Google Talk, the new instant messenger/voice chat client that the Big G released today. Sorry ... no dice. Didn't download it. Not gonna use it. Since 99.9999999999% of the attorneys in my classes claim they've never used IM, I don't pay too much attention to it. Having said that, here are my thoughts, in no apparent order:

1. Google's continuing to take shots at Microsoft's core business, the operating system. First Google Desktop ... now Google Talk ... and maybe a browser someday?

2. Google's also now competing with one of its friendlies -- AOL -- which leads the IM field.

3. So much for the "laser-like focus on search". (I know that concept's been dead for a couple of years, but I had to say it anyway.)

4. Seems like Google cares more about the voice part of its client. Makes sense. Most people use the IM clients you can download for free. Voice -- well, that's something you can monetize.

FYI, the big 3 IM clients are AOL IM, MSN Messenger, and Yahoo Messenger. Choose carefully -- they don't talk to each other.