Google has launched a preview version of a new tool designed to mesh the capabilities of email and instant messaging in a single product.

The Google Wave offering uses an interface similar to the standard Gmail inbox to display "waves" through which users discuss specific topics and share related content such as photos and documents.

Other users can be invited to these waves and all of the participants can then see others' contributions in real time.

Waves can also be replayed so users can see how the conversation developed over time.

"Google Wave is just as well suited for quick messages as for persistent content - it allows for both collaboration and communication," stated Lars Rasmussen, software engineering manager at Google.

The product is only available in preview format for developers at present, as Google is looking for developers to contribute ideas on how else Google Wave's technology can be used.

Google Wave was the brainchild of the team behind the original Google Maps technology.

Rob Enderle, a Silicon Valley analyst, told AFP that while Google Wave has promise, it may require the cooperation of some of Google's rivals when it comes to integrating content from other websites and services.