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Digsby Donates!

February 25, 2010 @ 1:17 pm EST · Filed under News

We’re very excited to announce that Digsby crossed another major milestone.  We now have over 2 million users managing more than 5 million accounts and exchanging over 25 million IMs each day using Digsby!  We think that’s pretty amazing.

We couldn’t have done it without you!  Every day we’re amazed at the quality feedback and passionate support you give us.   Thank you!  We want to take this opportunity to give back and show the world what 2 million Digsbies can do.  We’re excited to announce Digsby Donates!

What is Digsby Donates?

Digsby Donates is a small browser plugin that helps support Digsby development and allows us to make a donation on your behalf whenever you shop at one of over 1,800 participating merchants.

How does it work?

After installing the browser plugin, a small bar will appear for 10 seconds whenever you visit a participating merchant’s website letting you know that part of your purchase amount will be donated to charity.

Does it cost me anything?

Not a penny. Each of the participating merchants has an affiliate program that pays Digsby a portion of the purchase amount for encouraging you to complete the transaction.

Who gets the donation?

We couldn’t decide on a single charity so we picked 12 top rated charities to support.  Each month a different charity will get the donation from that month’s affiliate fees.  For example, this month’s donation will go to the American Red Cross to help victims in Haiti.

How can I help?

For more information check out the wiki.  Please help us make the world a better place by downloading Digsby Donates:

  • Daniel
    If I see one more damn "Part of your donation blah blah blah blah blah" Ok, I really don't need to see this on every new tab I open in Newegg, it blocks InvisibleHand. There needs to be a way to either turn those damn notifications off, or make them only pop up once. I won't uninstall it yet, but please update the damn thing.
  • Digsby
    Unfortunately, it does need to open each time you visit a participating merchant in a new tab. The notification is what incentivizes you to complete the purchase - without that, what is the merchant really paying us for? The alert goes away in 10 seconds and we noticed this is really an issue only with newegg because they open so many things in new tabs.
  • who do i complain to about tokbox? it shrunk and all pixels. what happened to the previous version?
  • Jeff
    Awesome I love digsby and I will be supporting this- I was wondering if you guys have a "donate" option somewhere to the Digsby organization? I'd be sure to give a few bucks to help you guys out.

    Also Please please please please enable multi chat use! I use that alot with my friends.
  • This is a smart, easy and free way to help the most needs and great causes that need our support. I congratulate Digsby for such a brilliant program and its human sensitivity.
  • czadd
    I'm OK with the idea. Once it's a firefox or chrome plugin I'll probably do it. Thanks for a great product!
  • Digsby
    It currently works for IE and Firefox.
  • cmssw
    Thanks for nice idea about donate plug in but I prefer using good search and good shop to support our cause of preference than going out to outsiders. Suggestion is adding up to people's choose on which cause they want to support and the amount indicated as display how much the donations are and where these go to.

    I had to uninstall this plugin because of your choice of causes.
    Thanks for the nice idea.

    CM
  • cara
    This is a wonderful idea. Just installed the plugin. Thanks for making a great product. I love Digsby and recommend it often!

    All the negative comments here actually make me even *more* excited to participate.
  • LEON
    BEST SOFTWARE EVER THANKS LOVE IT
  • Hermann
    I have donated hoping that we will see localized versions of Digsby soon. ;)
  • Hi there The Digsby Team and fans,
    this donation add-ons sounds kinda cool, helping people in need while shopping is always a good thing.
    Of course living in New Zealand the merchants are far from home for me and the prices of USA merchants are prohibitive.
    My main question is about the way the shops that your promoting with this donation included sales.
    Do the shops/merchants possibly send tracker cookies to our computer still, thereby plugging up our future surfing to other locations with their personal popup's etc.
    it would be wise for you to check this out as I have seen computers with over 500 tracker cookies on them and it's not pretty
    in these instance they call me and all I take along it dependency walker and process explorer to shut down the worst of the trackers so that I can finally get the computer running again.
    I do know merchants want their items sold in preference to other's that compete against them but tracker cookies are the spam of aggressive merchandising. I am sure there are hundreds of people whom unwisely send their computer to a computer merchant to repair them as a cost of around $NZ120 per hour.
    not something each new Internet surfer can afford in this recession Globally.
    So in conclusion: make sure that with Digsby purchase and-on that the merchants omit cookieing their Valued clients computers before you become associated with them .. Pro-Rata.
    from your friend Robbie Kleij a.k.a. mdbobbo all over the net. changing "need to know" into "Learn and Tell"
  • Dear Fantastic Digsby,

    I've been an avid user of your product, I keep a copy of the portable file installed to my keychain jump drive so I can use Digsby where ever I am. You guys keep up the good work. If I can support such a great product with just my typical online shopping and at no cost to me, why would I be upset about that. You have to feed your family, and for releasing such a great product, not quite sure how you do it. I chose to opt-out of donating unused processing power, but I wouldn't mind a unobtrusive *Chrome* plugin to help you guys continue the good fight against all these haters. They are getting something awesome for free. Look at what happened to AIM, first it was free, then it was ad supported, now the ad's have quadrupled in size since 2000, and it bogs down my PC. It's still free, and people still use it. Now compare that to my good buddy Digsby. It's free, allows you to connect to way more people than just your AIM friends, customizable, has ZERO ads, completely open and honest about their goals, likes to party (at least i would expect it to), and now rather than taking all the proceeds from a plugin, even want to help out the top 12 rated charities. Even if its only 10%, how many users out there can say they donate 10% of every dollar they earn? Way to go Digsby keep it up, people who complain can STOP USING DIGSBY, we won't miss their b!tching anyways.

    Sincerely,

    Matt
  • Matt
    I think it would be better if you categorized the stores and when a digsby user want to buy something will look for the related category and choose a store instead of trying stores and see which one is a Digsby affiliate .
  • Redafe
    Hi ya. I read quite a long way down and didn't see my question answered.

    1. I think it is a great idea what you are doing - supporting charity.
    2. I love that it's still going to be a free product
    3. I would love to support you guys and the idea you have come up with is brilliant - now we can and it still costs us nothing (if we buy something online the shop donates for us - fab!)

    My question is.... how do we know which stores are in this scheme? I am likely to still look for the best value for money product (I can't afford to throw money away) but if it was a toss up between two stores and one of them was a Digsby affiliate I would go with them. How do I know who is involved?
  • Digsby
    When you visit a participating merchant's website, a bar will come down at the top of the webpage notifying you.
  • Silver_Dragon
    Lets put it this way, Ill install the plug in, but only if I know I'm going to shop at a participating merchant. Can you post a list, if even a partial one? If you cant, will you tell us why?
  • kenaiman
    Most people are missing the point the commission is a standard process in most business arrangements. But they need to be careful of defining what is income for development and what is donations. I hate when organizations generate income for salaries, etc under the guise of donations. If you are going to act like it is a donation plugin then a large percentage should go to donations. Otherwise call it a commission and just say Digsby gives 5% of their rev to charity. Something like Ben and Jerry's. I would instantly stop using Digsby if 95% goes to Digsby when you market it as for Charity.
  • Exactly kenaiman
  • Tim
    Haven't read all the comments, but just from a purely personal choice perspective, I'm not a fan of browser plugins. Really it's just because it adds to the bloat and slows things down too much, or if something goes wrong can bring the browser down. That's why I use Chrome. No bloat and a fast browser.

    I commend what you're doing though. As an option, perhaps you could have some sort of affiliate link scheme also. e.g. like the UK fund raising site easyfundraising.org.uk. No browser plugin but means you just use affiliate links whilst shopping and the affiliate proceeds go to a chosen charity.
  • dontplay
    easy way to do it ....go pro two versions one payed one free works everywhere else. then you will get what ya deserve. i donate my bandwidth while in idle time....I'm a programmer and also would like something for my time ....even if its just breaking even
  • alwaro
    First: Sorry for my English, is not the better (Obviusly) I'm Spanish!!!

    Digsby is a great app but you have in the download page the option for Mac and Linux but it´s always with a big "Comming soon!!!" and this is since a lot of time!!!! Really are you developing any of these versions???

    Now, I´m a Mac user and only use Windows at work. This fact makes me to use digsby only there and I never can use it in my home
  • Digsby
    Absolutely! We wanted to get the Windows build solidified first but we're starting to work on Mac/Linux builds. The code is cross platform so we aren't developing from scratch.
  • Cool Digsby, I think this is a great idea.

    At the same time if you guys just charged a nominal fee, I would be happy to pay that as well.

    I love trying out things for free, but once I love the product, and I love Digsby, then I am happy to pay.

    Now where is my MAC version????? :-)
  • ratul_shams
    If I want to help and donate, do i hav 2 buy anything so dat iit will go 2 charity??
    how does it work??
  • Digsby
    The whole process is explained here: http://wiki.digsby.com/doku.php?id=donate
  • The comments for this blog could be considered a case study for how little the average user understands technology and affiliate programs. Not an insult to any particular person, just a point.

    I prefer cashback addons for myself, but I have no issue with the Digsby Donates addon. Aside from the whole profit thing (which I'm all for), it's entirely ignorant to believe that the only people that get paid from any purchase you make are the people who "stocked" the product.

    Chances are, if you're regularly buying things online, you are helping a handful of affiliates pay their bills. And you are completely unaware of the transactions between the merchants and affiliates (unless you've been actually paying attention). Be greatful that Digsby actually is telling you, making it optional, and hey, giving some of that money to charity. Regarding that, even 1% of a commission can still end up being quite a handful of money. Some companies pay affiliates in the hundreds for introducing customers that complete certain actions (such as buying a premium product).

    Not that I expect anything I say will change the minds of people who have already decided Digsby is evil. While they continue to use it.

    btw, +1 for rss reader.
  • thoughtcriminal
    In my opinion it's not about what you summarize as "how little the average user understands technology and affiliate programs", but it's all about transparency and being truly honest.
    It makes a substantial impact when you are being told that your action is going to help charities.
    What Digsby fails here is to be clear and transparent about the details how much money will be going to charities (and I don't mean exact dollars, but a rule - say %, etc.).
    I am new to Digsby so I don't know anything about it's past, but I can read from a few comments that there is some trust lost due to past Digsby's actions.
    Vague statements (I'm not saying that it's purposely) do not help but just make some even more suspicious.
  • Digsby
    The comments are referring to an unclear installation process in an older installer. More details here: http://blog.digsby.com/archives/693
  • uberuser
    I think I may have found the solution to everyones problems.

    1) If you are interested in participating / donating to a different organization each month. Install the plugin!

    2) If you are interested in participating one month, but not the next due to a personal conflict with the selected Charity. Disable the plug-in for that month!.

    3) If you don't give a rip either way. Don't bother to install the plug-in!.
  • Paul
    I don't see the point. If you want to donate, donate! There's no need to get us users involved!
  • Vicki
    I adore Digsby; this is the first thing I can recall that I don't support. Lots of minor reasons, but mainly I don't want Digsby choosing my charities. You say you chose the top 12? they don't need it. What if you choose one I disagree with? I'd rather you kept the money and let me choose my own charities. For instance, I have friends over in Haiti now, and am told that the crooked government has warehoused enough of our charity to last for decades, and the people aren't getting it. I know you're trying to choose topical causes, but they often aren't the "right" ones. Stay out of the charity business and put the money on development.
  • March is Humane Society? Sweet! I'm gonna go shop my ass off! Rock on Digsby! :)
  • jagat
    digsby,i am your number one fan!!
    if others dont see this,DIGSBY IS FREE!!why dont you give back in return to digsby...
    (i dont do online shopping,so sorry cant help you guys)
  • Freetards
    Are the various 1800 merchants aware that they'll be paying a commission to digsby even though digsby isn't driving the customer to them?

    i.e. the customer is already there, but happens to have this installed, so your affiliate cookie over-writes any other affiliate who may have convinced the shopper to go to the merchant's site (actually drove the sale, which is why merchants have affiliate programs)? The merchant ends up paying a commission on a customer they may have attracted themselves anyway...

    This is an ingenious way to cash in on traffic you didn't drive to the merchant, but doesn't help them much, unless of course they've opted in implicitly to allowing Digsby to claim the referral commission they didn't refer?

  • Digsby
    If you arrive at a site with another affiliate code, Digsby Donates will not replace it. If you arrive at the site without an affiliate code, a bar appears which notifies you that you are at a participating merchant. Since people installed this to support Digsby, they have a higher probability of completing the transaction at that particular merchant. The fact that we are encouraging or incentivizing the transaction is why the merchant pays us an affiliate fee. We were able to tie the consumer's purchase at the merchant with an existing affinity (helping Digsby + helping charity) so in reality that's the most targeted ad a merchant can show a potential customer. Make sense?
  • I think it's a great Idea.
  • scopefragger
    +1 guys, Iveinstalled and dont mind using it. Hopefully for you guys its part of one of the shops im about to buy the adobiew suite off xD, that should be a nice donation !
  • Ford
    I did a quick search of the page and my question didn't seem to be addressed, which is this: will this plug-in overwrite other websites' affiliate links?
  • Digsby
    Absolutely not. More details in a comment below to a post by "Freetards"
  • Digsby Sux
    I refuse to put any kind of spyware, malware, virus infected toolbar on my pc.
  • Digsby
    1) It's not a toolbar. You should read the blog post. 2) It's not malware, spyware, or virus infected. No need to spread lies. 3) Using a name like "Digsby Sux" gives away your intent to just post something defamatory in nature instead of a constructive comment.
  • your idea sounds good in theory. you are trying to make the idea of cookie stuffing legal and charitable. lets see how it goes. and to mention it, i do purchase online, but most if not all transactions, happens through a sandboxed exvironment where toolbars and plugins remain ignorant. you guys could actually think of better ideas since,
    1. not everyone will be happy to allow someone track purchases. Digsby is not evil, but it wont take long for fake digsby plugins to surface. you might not record anything, but people might claim you did. This is a shady area and might bring bad name for your wonderful product which i use until this minute.
    2. as the server load increases, this act of affliate code stuffing might reduce the speed of the transactions and might fail for somone with a pitiable connection.
    3.i dunno if https issues are taken into account / affliate policies allow this practise.

    anyway, i am a diehard fan of digsby and i wish all the good luck for your success
  • bnicc
    when will there be a mac version out? been waiting
  • Lennart
    Damn, should've said that two days ago. I just placed a £100 order on Amazon :(
  • Epaka
    You guys are awesome. I don't understand what people are bitching about. I've used Digsby for over a year and I've had nothing but good experiences. Once this plugin has Chrome support, I'm in. I don't care if 100% of the proceeds go to paying for Digsby development. Can't wait for Mac support so I can get rid of Adium!
  • Kyle
    Very nice idea, Digsby. I don't get why people are causing a big fuss over a free, OPTIONAL download. If you don't want to download it, then don't. You don't have to bash Digsby for doing something that donates money to charities.
    Also, if you are going to stop using Digsby for something as little as an optional toolbar, then go. Use Windows Live which is chock full of ads.
    All-in-all, I'm proud to be a Digsby user. Keep up the good work, guys.
  • kennethdetamore
    Personally, I have found that I absolutely love digsby. I have been using it for a while now and I have officially found that this is way better than any other networking, IM, email, and status program. This program is an extreme asset to me. Way to go digsby and thank you for creating something obviously useful for the people.
  • zack
    Hopefully mac/linux version are coming soon. It's said they've been coming soon for the best year.
  • Tintop
    I think the concern over the percentage to charity vs. Digsby stems from this: "...we thought it was a good idea to donate part of the revenue to charity to get broader participation among our userbase...". It's noble that you want to make a difference via these charities. However, since you are garnering participation with the charitable donations, I don't think it's unreasonable for those who are moved by that effort to want to know how much is going to the charities vs. Digsby development. I think Digsby is a great product and you deserve compensation for your efforts, but a bit of transparency on this isn't an unreasonable request.
  • lye
    Guys, "free" is not a acronym, it doesn't have to be capitalized.
  • Abie
    Hey Digsby guys...am a regular user of your app....me waiting for a linux version to use it from my off...when will it be available....
  • Hmmm...
    So when's the Amiga OS4 port coming out? :)
  • cordoor
    Nice idea guys! Love your product! Thanks for everything you do for us users!
  • sl4ppy
    Gimme a version that for $5 has no extra crap in it, an installer not loaded with toolbars and other garbage, and I will **gladly** pay it.

    $5 is far more than you'd ever receive from me through a charity donation affiliate thing.
  • Anon
    Wow. Imagine how many more features could be added if Digsby didn't have to defend every announcement they made.
  • Anon2
    Seriously. So many trolls on the announcements here it's not even funny. I guess it's 'hip' to dis a product that tries to offer a good, free service, but then tries to make a little bit of money off it. Way to go. Keep fighting the system.
  • I love the idea.
    If I'd be using twitter et co. for work related purposes I would gladly pay for a premium version. When I'll have this for Chrome, I'll take it into account for my online purchases.

    For those who don't understand affiliate support:
    A.com & B.com sell the same products at the same price.
    A.com is a digsby affiliate.
    You choose A.com because of that.
    Because A.com sells one products more that B.com, more profit, thus they can support some organisations.

    Maybe with some actual financial support, all the things we keep wishing from digsby(linux/mac support, conference option, feed reader, etc) would come to pass faster.
    I'd really want the ability to program messages to be sent at a certain time. I use hootsuite for that but I'm not really keen on it. That would be just brilliant and I hope it is somewhere on the digby dev list.

    The entire charity issue is secondary. I don't know how many of the people questioning digsby regularly give to charity, whatever the reasons. So, even if digsby gives 1% it is still +1% , one pack of extra meds or one bottle of watter.
    I assume the amount given to charity will be proportional to how much they make, so go on, get installing. I really don't think they'd hog all the money if this turns out to be really profitable, after all, if they were in it just for the money there are better/faster ways to get it.
    So, thank you digsby team for a clean, simple, efficient, free product.
  • ritzieri
    Once the press gets a hold of this, they're gonna shred you guys.

    RIP Digsby, I loved our time together and I'll miss you dearly
  • Digsby
    Don't see why that would happen.
  • diesirae
    I would like clarity on which "humane society" is being supported by March's donations. The Humane Society of the United States is a political lobbying organization that DOES NOT provide any substantial support for local humane societies. They share a common name that has been so misleading that at least one local humane society shelter has changed their name just to not be associated. In 2008 they had an operating budget of pushing $100 million, and donated less than one half of one percent to groups doing hands-on sheltering work for dogs and cats. http://humanewatch.org/

    I really don't think that HSUS needs any donations, and if this is truly the group that digsby intends to support - shame on you for not doing your homework.
  • I'm really confused by all the complaining. Digsby hands down you are the BEST by far for Multi-Platform Messaging Software. I don't plan on donating but if this software cost $$$ i'd drop money in a second to buy it. On a side note since Digsby is responding to some of the post, do you guys know if you ever plan on adding Blasting/Group Messaging to Digsby? I've got Tons of my friends on Digsby now and we used to use Yahoo Group Blasting Feature. Its the only thing for "me" that it lacks. Digsby thank you very much for such a great piece of software. Kudos!
  • jb
    This is a free plugin that To anyone complaining about "what percentage goes toward charity", there's a really good 'charity' out there called "instant messengers for the masses." It provides free instant messengers to all those who might otherwise have to suffer with separate programs for MSN, Yahoo, Aol, Gmail, etc...

    You'll be happy to know that if you use this service you'll be helping support this cause and improve it in ways we haven't imagined yet.

    And in case some people missed the subtlety... I'm talking about Digsby itself. This, as was said before, is free software. If you download it, use it, etc. then what's wrong with donating to Digsby? If it makes you feel better, assume that Digsby is your charity and be happy with it. You're not paying a cent more than you normally would to support software you're using, and you'll get an even better product in the future!

    Digsby supported you just by your running the program. Every IM you send out or receive through Digsby is proof of this. Every new feature and every update is further support by Digsby and Crew. They could have easily said "100% goes to Digsby", but no, they're giving a part to charity. If it's 1% or 90% it's still money the charity gets AT NO COST TO YOU.
  • John
    Great idea being able to donate.. However I see that the donations only go to disease help, (except maybe the red cross) and they are also mostly american organiziations, witch probably give much money to its leadership (red cross for example). I propose donating also to effective thirdworld organizations, that rather invest in education, small loans etc. that have proven to be effective. Also donations to science research would be great, for example solar och fusion/nuclear technology. Digsby is great!
  • Cam
    Digsby is cool, with few features it would be insane!!! :)

    like * transparency (at least for popup)
    * RSS support (google reader will do)
  • Jacob
    Every time Digsby updates it turns the Research Module back on. Have you checked your options lately? I can't imagine what's involved with this Digsby Donates module...
  • Digsby
    That definitely should not happen and we aren't getting other reports like this. After login, check the preference and submit a bug report using the Help menu with a screenshot of it turned on.
  • Buys lots of books
    Ok, I downloaded this, thinking I could put it to good use. But Amazon.com is not one of your 1,800 merchants? I now the download is working because I went to the Banana Republic website (shown in your screen-shot) and it appeared. Also popped up at Home Depot. But no Amazon? They are one of the largest retailers on the web. I noticed Wal-Mart and Target don't make the cut either, but Macy's did. Are you only going with high-end merchants?
  • A voice
    Only online merchants who accept the offer will do it. They may have gone to Amazon, and Amazon may have refused.
  • fabisx
    cuando va a estar en español????????????????
    cuando va a estar en español????????????????
    cuando va a estar en español????????????????
    cuando va a estar en español????????????????
  • Katie
    I love this. I commend you for figuring out a clever way to make a little extra cash to supplement your development costs while also donating a portion of your proceeds to charities in need (excellent incentive for customers to participate). You guys are a real smart, stand-up company. Well done.
  • sayed
    Very Cool Guys, Good Job,i love using digsby
  • danacKY
    Someone may have asked this already but when is the mobile version coming? ie: iphone App
  • Digsby
    We're focusing on mac/linux releases first.
  • Any kind of timeline about Mac/Linux? We're chomping at the bit for any news.
  • stiphy
    I love Digsby but am very careful as to what I load on my machine as it is used for software development. Anything that changes my environment, especially in regards to my browser, I am suspicious of.

    That said, I would pay for Digsby without hesitation if the cost was reasonable. You guys really should consider offering a "pro" version or something at some point to give people the opportunity to buy a little bit extra and generate revenue. I would much prefer this then the constant wierdness of some plug-in that you are asking us to install...just charge me and everyone else a little bit of money!
  • mike
    sounds great, is there a way to donate directly to digsby development?
  • I think this is great; I wont be using it, because I hardly ever make online purchases, but helping Digsby stay awesome is definitely worth a two minute download task and then have an unobtrusive banner alert appear when buying something. Hurrah for Digsby!

    If you have time could you add Skype functionality, please?
  • Patrick
    Just to let you know...The Red Cross is not applying any more of their donations toward Haiti relief, even if you are donating specifically for Haitian relief. The Red Cross set a cap for Haitian relief donations. All donations are now being applied to the Disaster Relief Fund instead.
  • jpod09
    I think the best way to describe this, and help people really understand it is as follows.

    Every once in a while a restaurant in your community will allow a "charity night," where a local charity will ask that they donate, say 30% of the price of the meal if you mention the organization name. Yes, the restaurant still makes its money, but then it still gets to feel good about helping someone out at the same time. And since I'm sure most of you wouldn't gripe about that situation, why gripe about this?
    I would love to help, but alas, I have chrome, and I'm too lacking on funds to bother buying stuff online.
  • Waiter
    I'm sorry but you're missing the hole point of why people object. The percentage (1-5% in this case) doesn't go to charity but to Digsby and to its development. Digsby then pays "a part" of that to charity.
  • Digsby
    You're missing the point of the example. The restaurant in the example makes money. The restaurant is Digsby. Everyone gets how this works.
  • Waiter
    How would Digsby be the restaurant?

    The restaurant is the merchants selling the products and giving away a percentage of the price to charity. Or in our case to Digsby, being a middle hand that doesn't exist in the first example.
  • doesn't work with my browser (Chromium)
  • Mathew
    Seriously. I love using Digsby. It being free is a bonus.
    I am a programmer myself, I know how much work one needs to put in just to make something work. Users would never understand. You guys are doing a great job. Digsby GOGOGO!!

  • fuzzyhotdog
    DIGSBY is the BEST !!!
  • cc_zero
    Don't know if this has been asked before but will there be German or at least internationally operating online shops on the list of participating merchants?
  • Digsby
    There are some but most are US merchant sites.
  • Stefan 93
    There aren't only American charities...
    I see that their Red Cross gives money to Haiti, but that is rare, of course...
  • blondlaw11
    THE DIGSBY IS THE BEST AND THE PERFECT .............

    I SWEAR BY THE GOD
  • blondlaw11
    THE DIGSBY IS THE BEST AND THE PERFECT ..............

    I SWEAR BY THE GOD
  • Vitor Gatti
    Does this plugin work on Linux Firefox?

    What are the sites that support this plugin?

    I'm Brazilian and the only two sites I buy stuff internationally are play-asia.com and dealextreme.com

    Also: Linux version, please! I was with hope that those two announcements would have something to do with Linux and Mac support... :P
  • Digsbyfan
    i hope someday u guys support my OS ubuntu and i can use digsby. i miss mediamonkey n digsby after i divorced MS. and those who r whinning, stop using digsby and stop whinning. digsby rocksss
  • Digsby for Mac?
    Wheeeen?
  • i would install it but it is not for chrome and i dont shop online :), but a nice step ahead.
  • Waiter
    I don't understand how this works.

    WHY would any merchant pay 1-5 % of the purchase ammount o Dibsby?? Well, definately not because Digsby promises to pay an unspecified part of the money to charity. Then they could just as well pay the whole part themselves straight to a charity organisation.

    What is Digsby offering the merchants that is worth 1-5 % of their selling prices?
  • Digsby
    Look up how affiliate programs work. They give us commission for generating more purchases and we donate part of that to charity.
  • Mr. S
    Some merchants (e.g. Amazon) have an affiliate program where sites (or Digsby in this case) get rewarded for the linking customers to the merchant that wind up in successful purchases. What the plugin does is it automatically tells the site (probably through a URL parameter) that you got sent to the site by Digbsy.
  • alisea
    no problem, Im going to support u and charity :) I like it. u do great job, we should donate u also.
  • So that means that only PART of the WebShopSites profit goes to donation (in percent they decides),, and only PART of that goes to your Digsby development (in percent you decides)..

    So that's basically just FEW percent of all..

    And this means that all those sites your plugin supports,, are actually going to donate YOUR project??
    You have some kind of contract with all those 1,800??

    If that's so,, this is really big and serious program,, are there similiar programs on the web?? I don't web-shop too much,, so i never heard of anything like this..

    sorry on my eng (grammar),, cheers,, azzaman77..
  • 16051605
    me parece un gran freeware aunque sugeriría dos modificaciones para ampliar sus usuario, una sería el idioma y otra la posibilidad de apliación de redes sociales que aun no aparecen y que poco a poco iran apareciendo

    Un saludo y felicidades por un trabajo que no se ha podido realizar mejor
  • pinkrosesforkt
    I just wish you had your own video calling instead of Tokbox. I have had very little success with it.
  • Brandon
    If I wasn't running Chrome I would definitely install the plug-in. The concept isn't all that difficult to be completely honest. Kudos on the idea, and if you can incorporate it into Chrome, I shall definitely download it. On another note, Skype integration is a MUST, as is RSS notifier/reader. Thanks guys, keep up the good work.

    p.s. Just for fun, you should, on the next update, make more skins for Digsby. Just an idea though :)
  • Gskellig
    I installed it. Why not? If I don't like it I'll remove it.

    I discovered digsby last week.
    WAY better than pidgin/mirandaIM IMO. It lacks some features but from what I hear "they're working on it".

    One thing I really like- Look at how many times "Digsby" has responded to people. I don't know any other development team that has THAT much interaction with its customers. No wonder digsby is doing so good.
  • freibooter
    "Part of that affiliate fee is used to continue developing Digsby and part of it is donated to a charitable organization."

    Am I the only one massively bothered by the fact that no numbers/percentages are given?

    1% would still be "a part".

    It is very, very clear that we should focus on the fact that money is given to charity and that's a way to ensure that people install this add-on voluntarily. And yes, I do think that's a good thing because it comes at fairly low personal cost for most.

    Since over 95% of the announcement deals with the "donating to charity" part (the fact that "a part" goes to fund Digsby is mentioned in two half sentences) the whole text is intentionally written in a way to make the reader think that the majority of the money actually goes to charity.

    Sadly, especially given Digsby's suspicious behavior in the past, I have at least to suspect that the crass opposite might be the case.

    So I would really like to know HOW EXACTLY the money generated by this plug-in is split between charitable work and personal gain before I can even consider installing this plugin.

    WHAT PERCENTAGE GOES TO DIGSBY and what percentage goes to charity?


    At the moment I'm sadly reminded of the following Simpsons quote:

    "Springfield Shopper" Tour Guide: And each paper contains a certain percentage of recycled paper.
    Lisa: What percentage is that?
    "Springfield Shopper" Tour Guide: Zero. Zero is a percent, isn't it?
  • There is no conspiracy. The first part of the first sentence in the answer to the first question says: "Digsby Donates is a small browser plugin that helps support Digsby development". It is also mentioned twice on the wiki page. No one is trying to hide anything in a bunch of text. If you read the user comments you'll see that everyone understood the post very clearly posting comments like "That's great.. A good way to keep Digsby running and help charity as well."

    95% of the announcement doesn't deal with donating to charity. Half the announcement is that Digsby crossed 2 million users and most of this blog post is used to answer what we thought would be the most common questions like how it works or whether it will cost the user anything to participate.

    Lastly, you said that we should focus on the fact that "money is given to charity and that's a way to ensure that people install this add-on voluntarily." You are absolutely right. The charitable donation is a bonus to get more people interested in participating. That's not a secret. We could have launched it with 100% of the money going to Digsby development but we thought it was a good idea to donate part of the revenue to charity to get broader participation among our userbase and so a band of Digsby users can do something good for the world. What's wrong with that?
  • Ham
    It's still not per-character formatting, don't care.
  • Digsby
    That should go out in the next release :)
  • Christian
    I love Digsby so to say! It is by far the most complete IM client for Windows systems with support of nearly almost all important networks.
    Despite I must say that I understand your money making. It doesn't pay itself and your expenses have to be take care of. Don't let them haters pull you down, haters always gonna hate.

    Keep up the good work and continue to think about alternative donation possibilities to keep you paid.

    Cheers from Germany,
    Christian
  • frogger
    You rock Digsby, and I wish you the best with this, but I simply refuse to download browser plugins.
  • STEVER
    Sooooooo... OSX Support? Anyone... Anyone... Bueller?
  • I think this is a wonderful idea. I don't know why people are complaining about OPTIONALLY installing a plugin that not only allows you to help donate to charities, but also helps keep a wonderful piece of software like digsby totally free. I love Digsby, one of the main reasons I switched was because MSN FORCED me to upgrade to 9.0 which didn't support the theme I was using with MSNPlus, also the ads at the bottom of the window were bloody annoying. Once i found out about digsby I never looked back. Keep up the good work guys!

    I would gladly install the update, but alas, I don't purchase online and would render the point of having the plugin sort of moot.
  • till
    Kind of weird, But hey gotta make a buck somehow right? What do the rest of you do for a living?

    oh, And the fact that it's optional is pretty sweet also. I'm not installing it. But I thank digsby for offering it to me.

    Don't worry digsby, I wouldn't help anyway.. I don't buy anything online. Which is kind of why I use Digsby because it doesn't cost anything.
  • sandy
    it's good & very good
  • We are using digsby chat in our website for live support, so I really thank you for your free services!! :)

    How can we participate in your donates? Any ideas?
  • Digsby
    Absolutely. You can install it on any of your PCs.
  • Yeh Digsby RockZzZ.. its nice to hear that My fav app developers got a helping mentality to care people who really deserves it... i will install it asap..

    Regards from a satisfied digsby user, u make me rockz :D
  • Mr. S
    Could you make the Firefox add-on available as an xpi file? I trust you guys, but I like knowing exactly what's going on with my system.

    Keep up the great work!
  • Digsby
    Definitely. We'll change the link in a bit to point to an XPI for FF users.
  • That's great.. A good way to keep Digsby running and help charity as well..
  • Jason
    This needs to be explained better.

    What is "causes.digsby.com"? (It serves up an error if I browse there, not very trustworthy if you want me to install a browser extension)

    What browser(s) are supported by the plugin? (Firefox? Why not go with a normal firefox extension instead of a .exe download?)

    How does it know when I make a purchase?

    etc etc etc

    Come on guys, you can do better than this.
  • Digsby
    These are great questions. The domain "causes.digsby.com" points to Amazon S3. We use it for hosting for anything that may have a large demand because S3 scales really well. It will serve up a browser error when you go to the root domain because there are no web pages there - it is just a file server.

    The plugin works with Firefox and IE. The XPI is a great idea. We'll change the download button later today so if you are a Firefox user it will go straight to the XPI instead of the installer.

    As for when it knows that you can make a purchase, Google "affiliate marketing" to learn more about how affiliate programs on shopping sites work.
  • Keep on trucking, Digsby. I still rather dislike Lifehacker for that rather ironic article late last year. They trashed you for having avoidable ads in your software, while I have to install adblock to not see the ads flooding their page.
  • SK. Foysal
    Thanks for these.
  • xa3021
    I think this is great! Your not paying anything extra when you purchase an item, but some of the money goes towards the charity and some goes to digsby! Awesome! When it comes down to it I would probably pay to use digsby!
  • if it isn't too obtrusive, i'll do it to help digsby.
  • cowboysaif
    Hey, i think you guys doing a great stuff. But i think the idea is a bit broad for success. i love digsby. but some normal digsby users like me dont buy stuff from online nor use IE. So, we are failed to participate though we wanted.

    But why not digsby start value added sms and call service? This way we can talk and sms also by VPN service, in less cost, like Y! messenger. This way you guys can support charity + yourselves.
  • trunks
    I like the idea here, but I'm not sure if I can full feel as trusting after reading that lifehacker post a while back. I know you guys jumped right back on the ball and faced up to the public backlash, so I'm probably going to end up installing it anyways.

    I can't see a single issue with this idea, but I think you need to clarify to the public with a somewhat easier to digest message, such as this:

    - Install the plugin
    - Make a purchase as you normally would
    - A small portion of that purchase will be used as a referral credit for Digsby development
    - Digsby developers take that referral credit and split it into both money for development, and money for one of 12 top charities.

    That's just my thought.
  • Digsby
    More information is better than less with something like this but that list pretty much sums it up.
  • I think its a pretty cool idea. I'll install it. I am curious to see who is on the affiliate list. Hopefully its some companies that I buy from.
  • geneB
    Go Digsby! But, can you include Skype some day?
  • Claudia
    completely irrelevant, but when are you guys going to fix the aim connection problem? i'm on a digsby withdraw.
  • Digsby
    It should work fine. If you are having trouble, use Help > Send Bug Report to submit a diagnostic log after getting it to fail.
  • Kay
    I don't like installing browser plugins as I fear it will bloat my browser. So how about a bookmarklet which I can click to insert your affiliate code into the url? Of course a list of participating merchants would be required then.
  • P. T.
    I am with Samuel. I would rather support you guys directly for a great product. But only once...not every year like Norton makes me "thank" them.

    I am also confused. Should you add an age limit to the usage of Digsby? Some of the children on here don't seem to understand the affiliate programs you speak of or the concept of helping out a group of people who have made their lives easier.

    Thanks Digsby.
  • missathena72
    I don't use linux, Opera, or Firefox just good old Microsoft Windows Internet Explorer. So, since this plug in only works with Fire Fox I won't be installing however if my browser becomes supported then I will If any of the merchants are ones I use, as I don't shop online except for from a few places.
    Digsby this is wonderfull that you have found a way to raise revenue for continued development and so can keep Digsby free to users like me and in doing so have also had the foresight to find a way to incorporate that fundraising into a method of giving back to the "community" If every business gave back to the "community" without raissing prices for their "users"(customers) a whole lotta good would be goin on.
  • http://wiki.digsby.com/doku.php?id=donate

    It works with Internet Explorer... Also, it works with over 1,800 different merchants. Install it, visit the sites you normally buy online from & it should alert you that if you make a purchase on the site that it will make a donation.
  • I wouldn't mind a list of sites that this would apply to...
  • You guys rock! A RSS notifier or full reader would be awesome. You guys already do so much, and support so much. I like a lot of the world, use Fedora sometimes. So an RPM package installer for Digsby would be awesome! I suck at those tar.gz stuff.
  • From méxico, when are you going to release digsby for linux and mac?

    BTW great news, congratulations
  • Samuel
    Is there anyway to donate directly to support Digsby's development? I rather do that than to install a browser plugin, what's more I run on Chrome so I can't even use that. And I would be more willing to spend a bit if it goes directly to Digsby for making such a great product.
  • Here here. Like others, I personally won't use it, since I will _not_ shop, but I see absolutely nothing wrong with any of it. Everybody wins, in the end: You bought a product you wanted, a portion of the proceeds went to two charities, the charity-of-the-month and Digsby's free messenger.
  • Samuel
    Is there some way of just donating directly to support Digsby's development? I rather do that than to install a browser plugin... didn't notice a donate button or anything on the website (although I might have overlooked it).
  • Pathum
    02 words - HAIL DIGSBY!!

    This is a great idea. Digsby goes where other IMs have not even thought of venturing. I mean c'mon ppl, at least the cool ppl at Digsby THOUGHT about paying their gratitude to us - the users - where other IM clients are JUST IM CLIENTS.

    Just a little thought - How about adding the yahoo chatroom capability guys? (if i haven't missed it amongst the many features of Digsby that is hehe)
  • anoynomous
    good for you guys...

    i prob won't personally use it, but for all you haters out there.. shut up digsby is free...
  • toph
    Digsby is the best thing since sliced bread. When I win the lottery, the folks at Digsby are getting a cut. Until then, I will do what ever I can to help them out and keep it free. PS - I will double the lottery cut if you get Linux support up and running.
  • Lawrence
    I've read comment by Ben Today 05:17 PM asking about Group Chat and you've responded Today 05:36 PM that you are working on it.

    Is this the same feature where you can invite another contact into the same conversation you're having with a particular contact?

    That would be a great feature. I've lost that when I've moved to Digsby.
  • Digsby
    Yup :)
  • gpzbc
    I get tired of people complaining. Digsby has to make money the same as all of us do. Personally, I think Digsby is a great product and I'm appreciative of the fact that they are coming up with various methods to keep it free.
    Thank you!
  • megustadosmucho
    For we users that do not use IE / Firefox, how will you update us to let us know additional browser support has been added?
  • lilwiz
    Probably the same way you knew to read about this new feature.
    Hello ?
  • Oooh, I think this is cool! If there's a merchant list somewhere, I'd consider downloading it---because I don't shop online all that often, and I would like to avoid bloating my browser.

    It's really cool that you worked to get part of the purchase price to go to a charity, I really admire the effort put into this.

    Some people seem to have the wrong idea about it, though :C
  • Is the merchants list public somewhere? or is it private?
    I'm asking because I don't want to install the plugin if I never buy from those merchants.

    keep up the good work!
  • Strype McClaine
    As a general rule of thumb, I don't install most plug ins unless they do something that imediatly helps me (scripts, greesemonkey, ect).

    I understand your heart is in the right place here Digsby, but no thanks.
  • Timmy
    Some of you guys are absolutely pathetic. As a programmer, I can say that this program as simple as it is, can probably be a headache with networks always changing their configurations around. Some of you don't realize the time and effort they put in on their end to keep Digsby working all the time. I will also reiterate what other people have said and what Digsby also announced. It's OPTIONAL! So go pull out a Websters Dictionary and check out the definition of it. If you didn't like the idea to begin with you should have stopped reading and closed your browser. It's just that simple. Kudos to Digsby. Love the software even though I don't support browser add-ons.
  • Joe
    I don't understand why people are complaining about how much goes to the charity and how much digsby keeps. It isn't your money that's going anywhere. You're shopping at Banana Republic for example, and buy what you would normally buy and it costs you the same. The only difference is that you have a bar that enters Digsby's referral information so the RETAILER gives money to Digsby, not you.

    The thing you should be concerned with is what company developed said toolbar.
  • Arnox
    I'm completely obfuscated. Is the money going to charity or is it going to help support the development of Digsby?

    I want the latter. There are FAR larger organisations out there that donate a hell of a lot of cash. I understand you're trying to do the whole 'ethics' thing, but an IM service gone not-for-profit/donate crazy really is ludicrous.
  • Digsby
    It does go to both. We thought it was a good idea to run it as both a revenue model and a public service.
  • Seems like if you don't take a stand on exactly what percentage you'll keep and what percentage will go to a charity (and which charity) you may have a difficult time getting everyone on board. Don't use Washington's definition of transparency guys! Post your exact intentions on your website and you won't have anyone wondering and more people participating. IMO
  • Glenn
    I'm thinking it would have been better to say every purchase applies a small percentage solely to Digsby Development. Then in a separate announcement at the end of each month or whatever frequency tell everyone that Digsby donated money to charity. Less complicated and is helps the whiners better understand... not that they would participate anyway.
  • SirFrag
    Seems like an ok idea. I also use Chrome so I won't be installing it, however.

    Digsby, any plans on adding IRC support? I'd love to break away from Mirc.
  • Steve
    i am installing now
  • Tim
    Absolutely unreal how many people sit there and criticize the company for looking to make a little money for their development and support local charities. As if the average person understands the amount of work that goes into a project such as this...

    How much are you donating? How much are you making? Who cares? Its awesome that they're even donating. Most companies interrupt your experience with ads all over the place take 100% revenue and don't donate a penny.
  • Patrick
    Awesome! Digsby rox my sox, and I know tons of people who use it and love it. It bundles a bunch of buddylists into a single buddylist, doesn't have a movie ad in it that grows larger as your pointer passes over it, or worse, has audio, and people still gripe. They want to donate a percentage of revenue to charities and people gripe. I think these idiots should be interviewing people on the needy end of that donation. What would they think? I wouldn't care if Digsby donated $10 a month to a charity to help another human being, and if YOU do, you are disgusting.
  • Name
    Freakin haiti, im sick and tired of hearing about haiti, like the rest of the world has no problems..
  • Digsby
    Next month it's the humane society :)
  • The Humane Society of the United States is not like your local humane society and really help no animals with their money. It is a completely shady operation and Digsby shouldn't get behind it. Here is more info on why it is a bad choice for your support:

    http://humanewatch.org/index.php/site/post/less_than_one-half_of_one_percent/
  • Cmarie
    What Andrew said is legit. HSUS does make some progress through the laws that it changes, but I'd rather see the money go straight where its needed rather than getting thrown into the mess otherwise known as our legal/political systems.
  • Chris
    Man...a lot of haters in here. What's your problem people?
  • Sven
    Is there a way to turn off Digsby announcements?
  • Rob
    I Agree, I'm kind of pissed their announcement was so vague. It wasted my time.
  • Great guys. :) Imagine how much more users you would have if you ported it for Linux, Unix and Mac platforms.
  • Brandito
    by my calculations they'd get an extra 17 EXTREMELY vocal users ;)
  • MrTrip
    I would have done something like this if I even saw a Linux Alpha floating around, the only reason I got Digsby was because of the promised Linux port. Sorry guys, but you won't get my support on this. Its been 2 years now.
  • I really like this and did install it but that's when I realized it was for Firefox and not Chrome or anything else. I only use Chrome so once you guys get it for Chrome, let me know! This is an awesome idea guys. Keep up the hard work!
  • Vladd
    +1 on the Chrome support. It's all I use now a days.

    Also - many thanks to the dev team for such a great product!

    I'm drooling in anticipation of group chat.
  • AmericanJesus
    I was wondering, just do you have a privacy policy concerning the new plugin? IE, is any of my payment information taken by Digsby, how secure is my data, etc. Obviously you have to collect the payment amount somehow, so how does that effect my card details?

    Thanks for all the hard work! I love Digsby, I'm just trying to do my due diligence!
  • Digsby
    We don't collect payment, get your credit card details, or anything like that. When you visit a participating merchant, our affiliate code is inserted into the URL so the merchant knows to give us a portion of the transaction through their affiliate program. The entire transaction still happens between you and the merchant's website.
  • George
    I do not understand completely how this supports Digsby. Does part of the purchase go to Digsby and part to a charity, or does it only go to a charity?

    BTW it is really great that Digsby makes an effort to keep their software free *without* inconveniencing users by forcing them to participate in these. I really do not understand why so many people complain.
  • Digsby
    That is correct. Part of the affiliate fee goes to pay for Digsby development and part of it goes to charity. Basically, it's a revenue model and public service project all at the same time.
  • Aaron
    I like the idea of supporting charities. I like the idea of supporting Digsby. However I do not like the way they are being mixed together here.

    It doesn't help that the ratio of which is which is not defined, but the real problem is that Digsby is using the promise of donations to spur use of their income vehicle. Yes, other companies do it too, and I have the same issue with their use of good deeds as advertising for their products.

    If the company behind Digsby has found that they are not able to provide their product for free, they've made a big mistake in planning. Don't make another mistake by alienating potential sources of income (as seen in the general negative tone in this thread). Just tell us exactly what you need, and give the users a chance to help you find it. Put out a budget, project what can be done given X revenue, and provide ways for us to help you generate the required amount. Don't blur the issue with this charity nonsense. Your product is excellent and stands on it's own merit.
  • Digsby
    The tone of this thread isn't generally negative - it's generally very positive with a few vocal skeptics. We don't think there is anything wrong with donating part of our revenue and letting everyone know about this to encourage more participation.
  • ShammyKon
    Beautiful. Digsby is *the* only option for windows multi-client management. When it comes to mac / linux, I am sure it will be the same.

    P.S. You need feed support like RSS. Hide it under the contact list, or something of that sort.
  • Digsby
    Full RSS reader or Google Reader notifier that works like our email notifier?
  • Oh wow! I really love google reader! If you built that into Digsby, that would be insane. I mean, Digsby does already do tons of other things. Why not add another? Digsby rocks!
  • Oh wow! I love Google Reader! If you had
  • Pasan
    Yes, both. Notifier *and* a full reader.
  • ShammyKon
    Hmm, I suppose both are actually excellent ideas.
  • Whenever I support a charity, I go with a non-profit organization. As much as I think Digsby developers should be paid, I don't think their salary should come from money going to charities.
  • Digsby
    I think you misunderstood how this works. If you use this it will support Digsby development and result in a donation being made. If you don't install it, neither of those two happen. We aren't being paid with money that would normally go to charity.
  • So a small percentage of a purchase at each of the supported outlets will go towards Digsby's development, and a portion of that will go towards charity?

    I'm afraid I misunderstand the concept.
  • Randy
    I think this is a good idea I love free things like Digsby and know there has to be some way for them to make money or it will just go away. Now what about Digsby Donates for Google Chrome? Also just as Becky Raymond says above me:
    "Since you give me a great program for free and made the plugin optional I'll be glad to install it and hope that it helps with future development."
  • 1papasan
    Ok Digsby, ok I'm going to install it and hope some of that cash flows your way. You've put together a great product that until now I've taken for granted. You really have delivered an exceptional product while asking for little in return, and this method of remuneration appears to be a painless one from your user's perspective. Nice job, and keep up the wonderful work.
  • Digsby
    Thank you. We'll keep pushing to make it even better and greatly appreciate your help spreading the word.
  • I love digsby, but I'm not a fan of this kind of money making. Personally I'd rather just make a donation to you guys directly, or buy some kind of "premium" version.
  • Hakimy
    you said 2 important announcements but I only see one.or am I missing something?
  • Digsby
    1) We passed 2 million users
    2) Digsby Donates
  • rayhawkfam
    Since you give me a great program for free and made the plugin optional I'll be glad to install it and hope that it helps with future development.
  • Randy
    I agree absolutely. Making it transparent, opt-in and trying to do something for good to charities. Ill install.
  • Sid
    Count my support. Love the product for its IM integration and social network features.
  • bobbiegirard
    I HAVE IE WITH MY HOTMAIL ACCOUNT...I USE FACEBOOK AND THE IM THERE IS TERRIBLE....IT FREEZES CONSTANTLY...AS DOES ALL OF FACEBOOK GAMING...SINCE I HAVE TO KEEP IE I PREFER DIGSBY. CAN I USE DIGSBY AS MY PRIMARY PROGRAM ,OR LET IT CONTINUE TO RUN IN THE BACK GROUND? I LOVE THAT THERE ARE NO ADS ON DIGSBY. I HAVE TESTED THE WATER,SO TO SPEAK BUT SEEM TO HAVE IE AND DIGSBY COMPETING FOR 1ST SPOT.. ANY ADVICE FOR THIS "NOT SO PC KNOWLEDGABLE" PERSON..???
  • Rasti
    Yeah, your caps lock key is over there
    <---- use it.
  • BOBBIE
    FOR YOU INFORMATION; I HAVE SIGHT ISSUES WITH MY VISION. IF I HAVE TO USE CAPS WOULD YOU LIKE FOR ME TO PREFACE MY COMMENT WITH A NOTIFICATION..."EYE SIGHT ISSUES-WILL USE CAPS" ...IF IT BOTHERS YOU..JUST KEEP SCROLLING BUSTER. HOW VERY RUDE OF YOU,MAY YOU FACE SIMILAR ISSUES AND DEAL WITH YOUR OWN RUDE SELF..
  • Don't plan to install this, but enjoy using Digsby.
  • ORiO
    ang galing... nice.
  • Jibbles
    Thanks Digsby! I assume you will ignore the ignorance of some of the posts and will not waste time pointing out their specific errors in logic. You have created a great product using great ideas. Thanks again!
  • Hello,
    I want to know if it will take too long to release the Linux version.
    thankyou
  • Nick C.
    Good work Digsby! Digsby is great, but definitely should look into both Chome and Linux support. Thanks!
  • Nikkes
    You will recive Donations as soon as you complete Skype Integration (without havin' to run Skype in BG)

    =)
    great work !! but if you manage to get skype running there will be no alternative to digsby
  • Sigh
    I dare you guys to tell us the breakdown of how much goes to Digsby and how much goes to charity. No? I didn't think so...
  • dunlop
    Hey Sigh, the door is right over there pal...
  • sigh2
    wow you're a dick lol
  • justintexas
    Wow you're uneducated!
  • Digsby
    That's answered in a comment above.
  • Name
    Even if they donated 0% to charity and the purchase kickbacks went 100% to the Digsby developers, WHO CARES? They deliver an excellent product for free, and are just trying to find ways to support themselves. What is wrong with you people???
  • Mxx
    i'm pretty sure it's criminally illegal to claim one is collecting money for charity but keeping everything to themselves.
  • BlobblobblobbloB
    We all should do this. If it's free and its helping "Digsby" then we should help them. They give you a program for free and you complain about not supporting them. You shouldn't be able to use digsby withough this plugin.
  • digsby_user
    What % goes to the charity and what % goes to Digsby? Not that I disagree with pursuing this revenue model, just thought knowing the numbers may help ease users. Also, I would be interested to see a running tally of how much has been donated.
  • Digsby
    We didn't specify one because we have no idea yet. We want to see how the program performs and big it gets but the intent is to make sizable donations every month.
  • Mxx
    so since you don't have a predetermined amount/ratio, and if by whatever measure you specify, you consider this program not to perform well enough, we can end up with you keeping 100% of the money?
    that's a pretty nice scam to claim collect money for a charity and keeping all of it.
  • Digsby
    Absolutely not.
  • ZenWarrior
    Great idea. Too bad you don't support my browser, Opera. I'd gladly participate. Anyone who thinks they're avoiding tracking these days by installing nothing "extra" is clueless about current state-of-the-art online behavioral tracking. Any idea how much Flash stores and reveals? Any idea how much can be seen using *only* your browsers? Have a look via EFF's Panopticlick: https://panopticlick.eff.org/ . Looked? Now go ahead, install the plugin, and do some good today.
  • me
    I like this idea. I can't understand why Tanya and "Sigh" have a problem with it. Guys, we're getting this program for FREE. Companies have to make money some how. I'm happy to support Digsby by just making purchases that I would normally make. Knowing that the money is also going to charities is even better.
  • I read through the wiki,,, saw the picture of the add,, and I say GOOD for you guys,, if the bar ISN'T always there taking up valuable window space, and you have chosen some VERY deserving Charities,, and I DON'T have to see more advertisements,,,, I think you did a GREAT job,, and as usual you have a great product,,,PPL were even surprised you incorporated GOOGLE'S new BUZZ.... your just plain WONDERFUL.
    Thank You
    Dixie
    PS. we are still getting set up on our Affiliate Program,,, but we would give you 25% of purchase price.
  • d nb
    Sheeple settle down. They were as transparent as they could be with this one. All communication avenues were used. I will not be enabling the new feature, but we all want Digsby to be a success.
  • Bob from Ravenholdt
    Pretty cool. I won't be participating but it's a good idea! Also, to the person that said we have Digsby free without advertising: Wrong. The reason we use Digsby is because it's free and has no advertising. If Digsby had advertising, there would be a lot less people using it!
  • The free version is advertising Digsby's service, therefore it is an ad.
  • Anon
    I really don't understand why so many of the above comments are so negative. This is a completely optional download, and the description of it very clearly describes what its intended purpose is. So what if the Digsby team is trying to use it to make a little money to support development? Digsby is a great program, and its completely free, i see absolutely nothing wrong with this. Plus, some of the money is going to charity too
  • I don't get it either!
    Yep! Some are complaining about transparency about an OPTIONAL feature they learned about FROM DIGSBY!

    C'mon guys... go look up the meaning of "transparent" on Merriam-Webster's website!
  • technobrarygeek
    I have been using some sort of IM aggregator for 8 maybe 10 years and Digsby has been the cleanest and reliable product I've ever NOT paid for. I REALLY don't understand the sniveling over Digsby trying to adopt a program that allows them to develop an even better product. This OPTIONAL program may even get these other versions, people obviously desire, to completion. The part of this that surprised me is that they even considered send a portion of the money to charity. They have absolutely no obligation to part with any of that money. It seems to me that this is VERY rare in the world of "free" software. How many free programs (and browser plug ins) nag us to upgrade or purchase on a scheduled basis with no mention (and I suspect no intention) of donating to even a single charity?

    BRAVO! Digsby BRAVO!
  • Missathena72
    I am also in total agreement and that development money they are working on well that's a bonous for us the users further development of Digsby means a better Digsby for all of us.
  • Bobby
    Totally agree here with you.
  • krbkkr
    Clearly the previous lack or perceived lack of integrity on Digsby's part has had its effect. Nowadays users are wary of anything you do by default. Just goes to show that once trust is lost, you really have to be whiter than white to even attempt to win it back. Best of luck.
  • Congrats! Digsby is an amazingly useful and timesaving product...still waiting for the Linux version!
  • great for you digsby! only problem is I don't really buy stuff online and if I am I would be using chrome not firefox or ie so this doesn't do much for me. but the more donations you get the better
  • can't wait to help u guys!
  • Proud Supporter
    Wow, people are stupid. It's right there in black and white people. You install the plugin, go shop somewhere, part of your purchase goes to charity, you pay nothing extra. I'm assuming it helps the development of Digsby by getting some kind of kick back from the merchants? Not to mention more word of mouth in general. Personally, if I were Digsby I would be a bit annoyed that soulless people like you are using my program to begin with.. It's ad-free and gets you talking to just about anyone on any service out there, and always has. Not good enough for you guys? You want to assume Digsby somehow became malicious overnight? Bugger off. Go donate to the 700 club and stick to AOL's software. We'll see who gets more ripped off.
  • I don't see why you have to drag the 700 club's name through the mud and politicize this argument. Unnecessary. Just argue that they are getting a terrific service at no charge and the ability to use it, or not. Their choice.
  • Supporter
    Well said. I don't read comments here too often but I was surprised to see how people are so arrogant and stupid. They feel entitled to free stuff.
  • Ben
    I would never install anyone's browser plugin. Ever. I would, however, send you money if you just added full support for Group Chat via a single provider.
  • Yatzee
    Definitely. This is a critical feature. I'm not even able to use the program w/o this capability.
  • Digsby
    Working on it now. And you don't need to pay us for it :)
  • Mikey
    I think his point is some of us would be willing to pay a dime or two to hurry this along since it seems to be taking a good while longer than anticipated and no timetable has been given.
  • +1

    Not to mention, I'd gladly pay a dime or two to hurry along Mac support too.
  • dickieA
    People in this world have become so extremely selfish and disgusting.
    THANK YOU DIGSBY ! We get your product for free with no advertising. It is a fantastic program once again for FREE. So the company is looking to make some money on the affiliates side of the things and is going to DONATE to the top 12 charities ! BRAVO ! It is the scumbags of our world who complain and these are clearly the people who would never donate or help others in need. I have turned on at least 500 people to Digsby and will continue to do so daily. Great work !
  • Well done, Digsby. Well done.
  • JP3
    digsy is doing big things huh?
  • Dave
    Great that you're adding new features. One question: how's the Linux version coming? Have seen neither hide nor hair of it...
  • james madson
    Finish the OS X version first please.
  • How do we know the money is going to said charities? There's no proof, and Digsby doesn't exactly have a clean track record for being upfront with their customers.

    Are you going to have a counter showing how much has been donated? Is there going to be a place to check on these donations from the charities' website? Until there is sound proof, I'm not installing.
  • Freetards
    What do you mean their "customers"??? it was free! at what point did you become a "customer" of a free product??

    You're not their "customer". You use their product because they allow you to. It's called Terms of Use. Don't like the terms? Don't install.
  • Free users are also customers since they are receiving a service and Digsby gets the promotion on the "customer's website.
  • Dictionary
    The word derives from "custom," meaning "habit"; a customer was someone who frequented a particular shop, who made it a habit to purchase goods of the sort the shop sold there rather than elsewhere, and with whom the shopkeeper had to maintain a relationship to keep his or her "custom," meaning expected purchases in the future.
  • Digsby
    To encourage more people to install it, we will likely announce them as they happen after the amounts become substantial (ie: we don't send an all announce letting you know about our $5.28 donation).
  • sp
    Really like the idea, but no support for chrome.
  • Fred
    Also needs Opera support.
  • mhaase
    Would like to see you support other social networks here as well. Adding Yuwie and peoplestring would be good to start.
  • Digsby
    Digsby supports LinkedIn :)
  • Other social networks across the board. My wish list would also include LinkedIn, Plaxo, etc
  • ErickD
    We're looking into support for Chrome
  • Looking forward to it for Chrome. Any chance you will support Opera also?
  • Support Chrome and I'm in. I installed, upon initially joining digsby, the program that allows you guys to use my PC during periods of inactivity. I have noticed no issues with it and you are building my trust because of that. Plus, I LOVE how digsby gives me access to just about everything I'm using and paying attention to.
    In addition to Chrome support, I'd like Mac support as I can only use digsby at work on my PC.
  • Jeff little
    I two am waiting mac support... you guys are missing out.. Mac Users pay shareware fees
  • Cigsby
    Soon you'll be begging at the local church, c'mon!
  • people are dumb
    Seriously? Do you really expect any company to create a quality product and not try to make a profit or at least recoup expenses?
    They spend money on this product and so they should make money from it. Read the terms of service and the fine print! If you don't agree to the TOS don't install Disgby. Its not their fault people are lazy and can't read.

    It's unfortunate that in Today's society it goes beyond just wanting something for nothing. People actually expect it now. They feel they are entitled to get something for free. Why?

    Digsby's way of making money keeps this product free for its customers and all of these things are optional to you. you don't even have to participate in the things Digsby uses to make its money.
  • "People are dumb- It's unfortunate that in Today's society it goes beyond just wanting something for nothing. People actually expect it now. They feel they are entitled to get something for free. Why?"

    Why? Digsby's response is just the filtering down of what is going on today in our country. We are seeing that answer spelled out today as Socialist, or Progressives, or whatever they want to call themselves today, are attempting to transform our country into a socialist state. Nobody will be allowed to have anything that isn't shared with everyone else. You don't deserve to have anything more than anyone else does regardless of whether you worked for it and someone else didn't.

    This is how that kind of thinking begins to mold every little area in our society.
  • Amen sista! The people who buy the service seem to appreciate it more than the freebie-ers.
  • cyberoidx
    Then be a man and donate some money to the Team directly.

    Programmers need money too.
  • I'm a huge fan of Digsby, and have supported you guys to the best of my ability during the backlash Digsby received after the harsh LifeHacker article, but I think you guys should continue your transparency with updates/new features. I think this goes without saying that this browser plugin is obviously going to do some sort of tracking, but how about inserting ads?

    Like I said, I love you guys, but I think that you should address this before it gets out of hand in the media. If it's not tracking or injecting ads, that should be announced up front, just the same if it were doing these things.
  • Digsby
    Absolutely. The plugin serves absolutely no ads and everything is explained clearly on our wiki: http://wiki.digsby.com/doku.php?id=donate
  • TONYA WIILSON-FITZGERALD
    I LOVE USING DIGSBY.
  • Marc
    Very Cool Guys, Good Job.
  • Sigh
    I really, REALLY like how you hid the "support digsby development" amid a bunch of crap about charity. Stand-up organization, Digsby, sigh.
  • "a small browser plugin that helps support Digsby development and allows us to make a donation on your behalf". Not really hiding.
  • Digsby
    Hid? It's the first part of the answer to the first question in the post: "Digsby Donates is a small browser plugin that helps support Digsby development..."
  • User
    Can you define "Digsby Development"? What does that entail?
  • NasaGeek
    The development of Digsby, that doesn't seem like a hard concept. It could be used to defray server costs, financially support the development team, etc.
  • I'm not sure if I like this or not guys.
  • paullaberge
    I agree. You seem to be all United States (American Red Cross). What about other countries like Canada?
  • kennethdetamore
    I personally love Digsby... I love how I am connected to everything with one program. This is the best networking, IM, email, and status program I have ever used. Thank you Digsby. I have been recommending you to all of my friends.
  • SexieRabbit68
    Same here, I agree with Tanya Peacock.
  • i don't like the ideal of having to install something. it is a little sketchy.
  • So don't...as they keep saying, it's optional.
  • fearthereaper
    If you are afraid, be afraid of Google, they are the ones tracking your every move.
  • Joe
    I'd love to know how you are running Digsby without installing anything... ? :)
  • Jon
    Digsby is FREE. Why do you or others that do not want company's like Digsby to monetize their offering, think that they are OWED a great free product like this?

    I use FREE Website development tools as well and once I found out how much I liked them, I purchased the "pro" version to get rid of the ads and other such stuff. Until that time, I was happy for my trade. I think Digsby bends over backwards to limit my exposure to things that generate revenue. It is all optional.

    Now, if they would stop twittering so much about different awards...
  • bbb
    because when they say free forever they should be true to their word.
  • Kundry
    How is it NOT free if what you pay to the merchant is the same amount, donation FROM the merchant or not?
  • Chris
    If you read the wiki: it states that "we" don't pay.... Each of the participating merchants has an affiliate program that pays Digsby a portion of the purchase amount (usually between 1% and 5%) for encouraging you to complete the transaction. Part of that affiliate fee is used to continue developing Digsby and part of it is donated to a charitable organization.
  • Bob Smith
    Just because someone has an opinion about a feature or function does NOT mean they think they are OWED anything.
    everyone knows digsby is FREE.
  • Robin M
    Every thought about how you pay your employees when your product is FREE??
  • Digsby
    It's completely optional. No need to participate.
  • Mxx
    However, if one chooses to install this plugin, participation becomes absolutely mandatory..?
    From what i understand, every time you see me on a "participating" website you insert your 'referral affiliate id' into the url so when i buy something you get a cut.
    However, based on the screenshot in the wiki it looks like this will happen every single time..you don't give me an option "would you like this purchase to be part of "Digsby Donates".
    You take the money every single time whether i want it or not.
  • Digsby
    @Wolfgang: That is pretty much spot on. The plugin is IE or Firefox right now but hopefully Chrome in the near future.
  • As I interpret the posting, it does not cost you anything. You do not donate anything. You only cause the participating merchant to donate something, because you used the plugin during your transaction.

    To avoid this from happening (I wouldn't know why, though), you can always remove the plugin or just deactivate it, while you buy something you do not want the merchant to donate for. IE has a plugin manager in the extras menu, which can deactivate and activate your plugins.

    I just assume, this only works with IE?
  • Yet you still don't have it for Mac?!
  • theboynextdoor88
    you realize you can throw the windows version into wine right?
  • MrGingerbear
    Adium.
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