There are times in one's life when one could simply do with a new buddy. You know, not a real-world entity like a faithful hound called Rory, but a virtual desktop chum to alert one to the presence of an incoming missive from the cyber world.

Permit us to explain in words of just a few syllables. The iBuddy is a crafty digital device in the shape of a winged luminescent figurine that, when brought to life by the insertion of a USB cable, performs all manner of magic electronic tricks when synchronised with one's PC-based MSN Instant Messenger-type application. That clears that up. And goodness me, it even looks like the tiny angelic icon on said Messenger program itself.

And how does it earn its spurs? Standing a proud 3 inches off one's desk, one's new buddy is constantly on the lookout for IM activity, and will perform right on cue in a variety of highly endearing ways whenever an IM alert is received, or a contact goes online. Lovely.

But the iBuddy goes even further. Oh yes. By cleverly identifying emoticons embedded in one's incoming messages, it is able to accurately reflect the intended emotions of the sender, to wit; when a heart emoticon is identified, iBuddy twists and flaps its tiny wings. Receive a blushing emoticon and it will go red. And whenever one's buddies are online, iBuddy responds in kind as its little heart begins to glow. Bless.

Instant messaging has been made flesh. So go forth, message and be proud.