OS X Tip #83
If you have a Gmail account you automatically have a Google Talk account. But Google has not released a Mac OS X Google Talk client as of yet. Since Google Talk and iChat AV are both Jabber-compatible Instant Messaging clients, no problem. If you want to GTalk with your GMail friends use iChat AV.

Here’s how:
Launch iChat AV.

Under the iChat menu go to Preferences -> Accounts. Add a new account by clicking on the “+” in the accounts.

Use these settings:
Account Type: Jabber account
Jabber ID: youremail@gmail.com
Password: yourgmailpassword
Server: talk.google.com
Description: Gtalk will be ok

Under the Server Settings:
Server: talk.google.com
Port: 5223

Check boxes: all on
Connect using SSL
Allow self-signed certificates
Warn before password is sent insecurely

Location: Whatever you like.

By the way Google Talk also works with Adium, Gaim, Trillian Pro, Gtalkr, Meebo, Miranda, and Psi.

See the Google Talk Help Page for help setting up third-party Im applications. If you are looking for the official Google GTalk application for Windows get it here.

    | Tags: Google, google talk, ichat, jabber, mac tips