An updated beta version of the Adium instant messaging client has been released, infusing a collection of important changes. Adium handles input from multiple platforms, including networks like AIM, MSN, Yahoo and Google. The v1.4 beta makes the critical addition of IRC, allowing for real-time group chat. By contrast the app has also gained support for Twitter, which can be used as indirect messaging.

The core network engine of the app has been overhauled, and an aggregate authorization window has been introduced. Other modifications affect group conversations, for instance allowing message styles separate from those of one-on-one chats, and the coloring of a group tab when the user's name is mentioned. Contacts can now be added to multiple groups, and buddy searches should work in all window styles.

The Adium 1.4 beta is a free download, but is the first version of the client to require Mac OS X 10.5 Leopard. A simultaneous non-beta release, v1.3.4, may be the last to support Mac OS X 10.4 Tiger. Included is an improved Facebook plug-in.