Open Cobalt's integrated text chat tool allows you to communicate with others using instant messaging. There are two chat modes available: local chat and XMPP-based (remote) chat. Local ChatLocal chat can be used once users have gathered together in one space via teleport or space-linking. Launching Local ChatThere are 2 ways to launch local chat. Option 1: From the HUD (i.e. the set of icons that appear across the bottom of the Cobalt Screen)
Option 2: From the People Menu
Tip: You can set the name that represents you in your chat session by selecting People>Text Chat>Set Chat Nickname... XMPP-based (remote) chatCobalt includes a second option for text chat, one that allows for remote communication. This second chat mode enables users to chat even if they're occupying separate Cobalt spaces. Cobalt uses XMPP for it's text chat tool, the technology behind both the open source Jabber and the Google Talk chat services. If you have a Jabber or Google account (Gmail, Google Talk, etc) you're ready to begin using Cobalt's chat feature. If you don't have an account with either Jabber or Google Talk you must first establish one. Create a Jabber account
Create a Google Talk Account
Login to Cobalt
You should now be logged in. To check: Click the Cobalt menu, look halfway down the menu and verify that your account name is showing. Add contacts to your chat buddy listYou must add your buddy to your Cobalt chat contact list before you can initiate a chat session.
Start a text chatIf your buddy is currently logged into Jabber or Google, you'll now be able to chat with them.
Understanding the difference between local and XMPP chatLocal chat works only when users are together in a shared space. XMPP-based (Jabber or Google Talk) chat, on the other hand, allows you to connect with others both locally, when they're in the same space with you, or remotely, when you and your contacts are in separate Cobalt spaces. In fact, the person you chat with using Jabber or Google Talk need not even be using Cobalt for your chat session. So, for example, two users, one logged into Cobalt on their PC, the other logged into a Google Talk account on their smartphone, could communicate using text chat. |
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