Yahoo said on Wednesday launched a new version of its messenger service offering free computer-to-computer calling worldwide, photo sharing and other tools.
The Internet giant said it was launching a test or beta version of the new messenger, which it said would provide an "all-encompassing, integrated communications experience."
Yahoo said it was enhancing its voice telephony service "to allow consumers to far more easily call anywhere in the world for free through high-quality, PC-to-PC calling."
The Internet giant will be challenging a number of other telecom and IT firms that offer free or low-cost calling via the Internet, known as voice over Internet protocol (VoIP). For Yahoo, customers need an Internet connection and a headset or a microphone and speakers.
"Additionally, for the first time, voicemail messages can be left for friends who are away from their desks or offline, and can be easily retrieved," Yahoo said in a statement.