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Add floating IM windows to your Android tablet

Tablets offer a lot of screen real estate to enjoy your favorite Web sites or apps, so why not making chatting with friends easier at the same time.

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Nicole Cozma
Nicole Cozma has an affinity for Android apps and devices, but loves technology in general. Based out of the Tampa Bay Area, she enjoys being a spectator to both sunsets and lightning storms.
Nicole Cozma
2 min read
Tablified Apps

Tired of switching between apps to talk to friends while using other apps or surfing the Web on your Android tablet? LilyPad HD seeks to solve that problem by making your instant message windows float above your other apps.

Instead of getting an alert for a new message in the notification area, you will see new messages as they appear in the IM window. It works just like GTalk or AIM would on your computer, except the windows are always on top unless you minimize or close them. At the present time, LilyPad HD only supports GTalk and Facebook Messenger, but they plan to add support for MSN, Skype, Yahoo, and AIM. Here's how to get started:

Step 1: Grab a copy of LilyPad HD for your Android tablet; the app is $1.99 for a limited time.

Screenshot by Nicole Cozma/CNET

Step 2: Open the app and choose the type of account you'd like to add. GTalk and FB Messenger are your only choices at the moment.

Step 3: Enter your credentials and wait for the app to load your friend list.

LilyPad HD in action! Floating IM windows are awesome on Android. Screenshot by Nicole Cozma/CNET

Step 4: Tap a contact name to open a new IM with the person and start chatting.

LilyPad HD lets the contact list float to the right. Screenshot by Nicole Cozma/CNET

(Optional) Step 5: Adjust the windows to your liking; the friend list can be hidden without shutting down the app.

Tip: When you want to reclaim your screen space, just press on the minimize icon in the IM window.

LilyPad HD also offers tabbed IM windows so you can talk to multiple people at once without losing all of your viewing area. Give it a try and leave your thoughts in the comments.