I dont think it's cause they're idiots. I think IM programs have been hyped soo much that they takeaway from IRC clients to be perfectly blunt. I think somebody decided that IRC should die and that IM programs are the wave of the future withf eatures IRC never had. What they dont understand is that irc is simplicity - you log in and chat. It's uncomplicated by video, voice, streaming music etc. It's the simplicity of interface that has kept people (among other reasons). IM programs have their purpose, which right now is MAINLY (tho not wholely) video and voice (and respective conferencing). If irc would to have video/voice, IMs would still be around and it would NOT make IMs any less desirable, it would just make mirc (the client in question) more flexible.
