The development of IM software for Qihoo 360 has become a sure thing.

According to informed sources, Qihoo 360 has already finalized the development of an Instant Messaging (IM) software, and its official launch is just a matter of time. Furthermore, the insider revealed that the core team responsible for the instant messaging software project at 360 is precisely the former "Rainbow QQ" (officially named "Rainbow IP Display Auxiliary Software" by 51.com) R&D team from 51.com. The more than 20 individuals who previously worked on "Rainbow QQ" at 51.com have been fully absorbed by 360.

There have been constant rumors about 360 entering the instant messaging domain. Since the battle between 360 and Tencent began, industry insiders have speculated that this conflict could be a prelude to 360 launching its own independently developed chat tool. However, earlier, Zhou Hongyi, the head of 360, had clarified the rumors about 360's entry into the IM field and responded on his Weibo account, stating that 360 has no plans to develop IM software and that the screenshots of the 360 chat software circulating online are fake. Nevertheless, today, Liu Jun, vice president of 360, announced to the public that due to the sudden developments in the situation over the past few days and the strong hope among many netizens for 360 to launch an IM service, 360 will consider this suggestion.

An industry insider pointed out that currently, the conflict between Tencent and 360 is escalating, even at the cost of user interests. Two years ago, Tencent also clashed with 51.com over the "Rainbow QQ" incident. From the current trend, this major conflict between Tencent and 360 bears a striking resemblance to the dispute between Tencent and 51.com over "Rainbow QQ" two years ago. (Huan Meng)