Many years ago when GAIM project was first started, it was called “GTK+ AOL Instant Messenger.” AOL naturally complained, and Mark Spencer changed the name to “Gaim.”
A few years later AOL trademarked “AIM,” and started referring to their IM services using that name. They complained.
At long last, GAIM have a signed settlement and can release a new version. There is one catch however: they have had to change the project’s name.
After a long, and secret debate, GAIM’s team settled on the name “Pidgin” for GAIM itself, “libpurple” for “libgaim” (which, as of 2.0.0 beta6, exists), and “Finch” for “gaim-text”. Yes, the spelling of “Pidgin“.
The final Pidgin 2.0.0 will be released late this week or early next week.
AOL is far from being an open source company, and hence, it has the money. It’ll do anything to bring troubles to its competitors, among which GAIM (now Pidgin) definitely stands out as on of the most popular ones.
I’m very impressed with the open source community’s efforts and maturity on this matter.
Honestly, the new icon and name is strikingly appealing. I think this was a blessing in disguise.
-Tres
Yeah its very good Idea. Thanks for it