1. The IM programs will work. However, try them and then give JiveTalk the 30 day trial. I'm sure you'll decide to purchase JiveTalk.

2. Any of the Curves will run Google Maps. Google Maps is a 3rd party application but can be downloaded for free. BBMaps comes preinstalled on the Curve. You can try both and decide for yourself which one you like best. Most prefer Google over BBMaps. There is also TeleNav which gives voice prompted, turn-by-turn directions. However, it's $9.95 a month (and you'll need a bluetooth GPS puck) but is well worth it if you need that capability. I have it and love it.