New Google Service to Blend the Gmail and Chat Features - New York Times

New Google Service to Blend the Gmail and Chat Features - New York Times: "The new program, called Gmail Chat, will let Gmail users exchange text messages with others without having to log onto a separate chat program, making instant messaging simpler and more integrated with the e-mail program.
From anywhere in Gmail, the user can see who is available to chat. The program will also allow users to store instant-message conversations."

I suspect this is a leading indicator and that many vendors will make it simpler to consolidate (sync and async, ephemeral and persistent) communication channels into unified user experiences.