Facebook IM on deck?

Facebook may be getting instant messaging. Sam Sethi at blognation UK says he was given a sneak preview of a new Facebook IM client that will go beta on Friday.

Much like all IM clients the general idea is to connect a network of friends--this time in Facebook (all resources). Sethi notes there's nothing to download and the software can be used instantly.

Sethi argues that a Facebook IM application could force Yahoo and MSN to open their protocols. Possibly. Of course it all depends on how fast this Facebook IM gets traction.

The IM news does argue to the point that Facebook is more of a platform company than a media one.