Telecoms giant BT has launched a new service designed to help consumers get information and support immediately.

As part of the company's Live Chat technology, broadband users will be able to communicate with a BT representative in an instant messaging environment.

Using the service, subscribers will be able to gain access to information on their broadband account such as billing queries, product advice and technical help.

Director of strategy and eServices at BT, Warren Buckley, said: "We want customers to be able to communicate with BT easily and know that communication over the telephone doesn't work for everyone."

Mr Buckley added that the Live Chat service offered subscribers a "real time" solution to any issues they may have without having to pick up the telephone.

BT Broadband currently has about 4.8 million customers in the UK, making it the country's largest internet service provider.