Apple today released their first public beta of a brand new program called Messages for Mac. Messages replaces iChat on your Mac, while also adding new features such as iMessage support, allowing you to send messages back and forth with iOS 5 devices.

Nate Chiger (@NatesiPhone) of HalfPeeledApple has put together an exceptional hands-on video to show you what’s new and interesting about Messages for Mac. Having used it myself, I think it’s a brilliant upgrade. But don’t take my word for it – have a look!

Messages for Mac beta is available immediately as a free download from Apple. I highly recommend installing it and checking it out! And don’t worry – if you don’t like it, Apple has provided an uninstall feature directly within the app.