Empathy is an instant messaging (IM) and voice over IP (VoIP) client which supports text, voice, video, file transfers, and inter-application communication over various IM protocols. Developed by The GNOME Project
License: Open Source
ICQ is a user-friendly messaging app that supports video calls and file sharing but lacks customization and has a smaller user base. In contrast, Empathy is an open-source application that offers multiple protocol support and strong encryption but may be more challenging for new users.