The times I’ve been in the chatroom, I haven’t noticed anyone pressuring others to show themselves on cam (okay, but just in fun). The great thing about the chat is that it is in real time (and isn’t saved as a photo would be). Like posting in the forums, but getting immediate replies. You don’t need a camera or mic to participate. Having these things though does make it easier since you can just talk instead of typing.
If MSN has the technology in use already to use your speakers as both speakers and mic, it will likely find its way to our chatroom soon as well. Our chatroom is actually provided through a big chat service company that “leases” chat services to web sites like ours. When they update, our chatroom is automatically updated too.
Mics and even web cams have really come down in price. Mics especially can be found in the discount stores for literally under $5. Actually though, any speaker will work. You likely have something that can be used as a mic already laying around the house. If you have a computer speaker from an old computer, a pair of headphones like from a walkman, etc., just plug them into your microphone jack on your computer. Speak into the speaker or headphones, and you’ve got yourself a microphone.
I do like your idea Jazzy about a scheduled chat time. I’ll certainly be willing to meet at noon on Sundays. If people want to stop by, they can stay as long as they like. 5 minutes, an hour, it doesn’t matter. I’m not shy about frightening people, so if nothing else, those who wonder can actually get a look at the Wizard of Oz. :ohmy:  lmao
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