Google Talk is an instant messaging client designed by Google and it allows you to chat with your friends or other users of the application using simple features and interface. The product is based on XMPP protocol, similar to Jabber service and it is available for free only with a Google account. When the chat tool was released, it was only a simple application meant to provide an easy way for internet communications, contrary to the solution developed by Google's rivals: Yahoo Messenger and Windows Live Messenger. As you probably know, these applications contain a lot of functions that help you communicate using the VoIP platform, webcam or emoticons. Some time ago, a Google employee said that the search giant aims to improve Google Talk to make it a true VoIP client but, until now, there was no sign of voice function updates in Google Talk.

The application was updated several times. A long time ago, Google decided to create a new way to use Google Talk, via Gmail, implementing a web chat directly into the mail service interface. Recently, the company released a new version of Google Talk, announcing that the program is now Vista-compatible but refused to mention more changes.

Today, the first sign that shows us that the company wants to improve Google Talk's VoIP features is a blog post where Google's employees presented a set of headphones that can improve your voice communication experience.

"We've tested many headsets on the market and we found three from Plantronics that we liked so much that we even added the Google Talk logo to them. You can purchase these headsets online at the Google Store. The winning feature: a noise canceling microphone. This eliminates any audio feedback or echos you often get from using your PC's built in microphone and speakers. There are many other headsets you can use as well. You and your caller will appreciate the better sound quality... and prevent those Nosy Nellies around you from eavesdropping on your weekend gossip," said Wesley Chan, Product Manager, in the blog post.

The latest version of the Google Talk instant messaging client was also tested by Softpedia and it is available as a free download through this link.