Desktop video conferencing software and services have been around for a decade and most IM (instant messaging) packages now offer video alongside voice and chat features. But the latest version of SightSpeed's package, SightSpeed 6.0, with its new interface and improved 30 frames per second video quality (pictured above), takes desktop video conferencing to the next level, whether on Windows-based PCs or Apple Macs (www.sightspeed.com).

SightSpeed is available in a free basic version or a pro version that costs $4.95 (£2.49) a month or $49.95 a year and adds such features as extended video mail storage and call recording. Both require a webcam and a broadband internet connection (the faster the better) and deliver excellent full frame video.