A couple of days ago Goowy started rolling out some new features. I was lucky enough to get them on the first day so I’ve spent the past couple of days checking them out. The two new features are an online file storage component and IM functionality. Both have a few bugs (although some I blame on the FlashPlayer 8.5 beta), but seem very well done and add a lot to the application.
The IM is pretty standard, and allows you to connect to AIM, MSN, ICQ, Yahoo and “Goowy Messenger.” I really like the interface they have set up and as you switch between features within Goowy, the IM will pop up a window allowing you to keep with the conversation.
The coolest thing, and unfortunately the part I’ve spent the least amount of time on, is the online file storage. They’ve teamed up with Box.net to provide 1GB free. The rumor is that there will be a 5$/month for 5GB offering soon. It seems to be entirely in Flash, taking advantage of some of the new features in Flash 8 which is cool to see. Flash also allows for an embedded MP3 player to allow you to play your stored music right from Goowy. I’m jamming to Johnny Cash – Solitary Man as we speak. You can tag your files so that you can quickly find what you’re looking for.
I had concerns that Goowy was trying to do too many things and that they’d lose a little bit of focus, but that doesn’t seem to be the case. I started using it for email back in the day and now I use it to organize my contacts, keep track of my calendar, manage my task list and check up on NHL scores. With as well done as the file storage and IM are for an alpha release, I have no doubt I’ll be making heavy use of them. Just tell me where to send my $5.
There is more commentary over at TechCrunch and also a piece by Campbell Anderson that’s quite good.
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