University of Southern California

Virtual Worlds: Virtual World Directory: IMVU

IMVU

04.25.08
IMVU
IMVU is a 3D instant messaging client developed by Will Harvey's ( HYPERLINK "http://there.com/" \t "_blank" There.com) IMVU, Inc. and currently has over 1 million registered users. IMVU seeks to provide an alternative for instant message users to socialize and have fun with their friends by offering visual avatars in a 3D world.  Users can create friends lists, chat and interact with their friends, customize their avatars and create home pages. In addition, users can purchase new items from the IMVU catalog or from other users. IMVU's content is highly dependent on its users, who are encouraged to create and distribute items in IMVU for a small upload fee.  Guests accounts are free, but member accounts can be created for a one time nominal fee.