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Yuuguu - lightweight desktop screensharing and collaboration

Yuuguu is a simple, fast, Java-based desktop application that picks up where IM leaves off, offering not only messaging, but collaboration in the form of remote control features and screensharing (think VNC). Of particular note is the fact that Yuuguu’s java code-base allows for cross platform screensharing and remote controlling - PC/Mac and vice versa.

On starting Yuuguu, the first thing you’ll want to do is add a contact / friend, which is a simple process. Enter their email address, and if they’re not a Yuuguu member already, you’ll have the option to invite them to join.

Once you’ve got contacts in Yuuguu, you can view their presence status, create multi-person IM chat sessions, remotely share and control each other’s desktops, and initiate voice conference-calling. The last is the current basis for Yuuguu’s revenue model - voice calling is a paid service that - somehow or other - is coordinated with your local phone service provider. I didn’t get a chance to try this out - I’m not even sure if it would work in Canada, how account details are figured, etc.

Of all the features, the standout is the screensharing. Unfortunately, I haven’t had a chance to try this either, but a lightweight, user-friendly version of WinVNC or the soon-to-be-dead NetMeeting would be super appreciated. I can imagine using it regularly to aid scattered family members in need of technical assistance, and I’m also curious about the possibility of using it to connect home and work PC’s, taking on GoToMyPC.

Suggestions

1. Address Book Parsing: Do it Facebook-style - give users the option to have Yuuguu dig through their webmail or desktop Outlook/Thunderbird address books. Connect them automatically to people in their address books who are already Yuuguu members, and provide the option to send out invites to those who aren’t. If executed respectfully, this would be a great tool for users and a great viral growth vector for Yuuguu.
2. Streamline signup: desktop apps in particular demand instant gratification - I want to open it and use it. Yuuguu signup through the app still requires you to wait for a confirmation email that includes your random-looking password - an extra step that comes between me and the functionality. Why not just let me pick my own password?
3. Clarify Usage Scenarios: Is Yuuguu targeted at tweens, or business users? The functionality straddles both, and the stated inspiration is business; but site branding elements and application UI speak to youth more than businesses. Separately branded versions of the application for each target segment might speed adoption in both.

Summary

Yuuguu is a solid application: light, useable, and well-featured. Add in some easy networking features, and consider clarifying the brand positioning, and its bound to garner a following. I’m personally looking forward to trying it out among family.

Other Coverage

1. The Kudos Factor relates that YuuGuu is Japanese for “fusion,” and won a Big Chip award (though I find the judge’s comment that “YuuGuu couldn’t be more Web 2.0 if it tried” funny given that YuuGuu is a desktop app, not even on the web).
2. Digital Inspiration points out the importance of Yuuguu’s cross-platform capability: apparently its the only tool to bridge OSX and Windows.

collaboration, gotomypc, realtime, sharing, social, vnc, winvnc yuuguu

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