AIM (software): Difference between revisions
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{{distinguish| | {{distinguish|text=the [[AIM alliance]]}} | ||
{{Infobox software | {{Infobox software | ||
| name = AOL Instant Messenger | | name = AOL Instant Messenger | ||
| logo = | | logo = AIM logo.svg | ||
| logo caption = AIM | | logo upright = 1 | ||
| screenshot = AIM | | logo caption = AIM logo in the early 2000s | ||
| caption = | | screenshot = AIM 4.7 screenshot.png | ||
| caption = AIM version 4.7, released in 2001 | |||
| developer = [[AOL]] | | developer = [[AOL]] | ||
| released = {{start date and age|1997|05}} | | released = {{start date and age|1997|05}} | ||
| Line 14: | Line 15: | ||
| latest release version = <!--?--> | | latest release version = <!--?--> | ||
| latest release date = <!--?--> | | latest release date = <!--?--> | ||
| programming language = [[C++]] | | programming language = {{hlist | [[C++]] | [[Adobe Flash]]}} | ||
| operating system = [[Microsoft Windows]] | | operating system = {{hlist | [[Microsoft Windows]] | [[Windows Mobile]] | [[macOS]] | [[Android (operating system)|Android]] | [[iOS]] | [[BlackBerry OS]] | [[Android TV]]}} | ||
| genre = [[Instant messaging]] | | genre = [[Instant messaging]] | ||
| license = [[proprietary software|Proprietary]] | | license = [[proprietary software|Proprietary]] | ||
| website = | | website = | ||
}} | }} | ||
'''AOL Instant Messenger''' ('''AIM''', sometimes stylized as '''aim''') was an [[instant messaging]] and [[presence information]] computer program created by [[AOL]] that operated from 1997 to 2017. It used the proprietary [[OSCAR protocol|OSCAR instant messaging protocol]] and the [[TOC protocol]] to allow users to communicate in real time. | |||
AIM launched in May 1997 and became popular by the late 1990s; teens and college students were known to use the messenger's away message feature to keep in touch with friends, often frequently changing their away message throughout a day or leaving a message up with one's computer left on to inform buddies of their ongoings, location, parties, thoughts, or jokes.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna5404762|title=Away messages keep users in touch|website=[[NBC News]]|date=July 9, 2004 |access-date=September 7, 2021|archive-date=September 7, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210907080237/https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna5404762|url-status=dead}}</ref> | |||
AIM's popularity declined during the 2000s and 2010s as AOL subscribers started decreasing and as [[Gmail]]'s [[Google Talk]], SMS, and Internet social networks like [[Facebook]] gained popularity. Its fall has often been compared with other once-popular Internet services, such as [[Myspace]].<ref name="mashable"/><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://techcrunch.com/2017/10/06/aol-instant-messenger-shut-down/|title=AOL Instant Messenger is shutting down after 20 years|date=October 6, 2017|access-date=September 7, 2021|archive-date=September 7, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210907063611/https://techcrunch.com/2017/10/06/aol-instant-messenger-shut-down/|url-status=live}}</ref> In June 2015, AOL was acquired by [[Verizon Communications]].<ref name="buyout-cnbc">{{cite news|last1=Imbert|first1=Fred|title=Verizon to buy AOL for $4.4B; AOL shares soar|url=https://www.cnbc.com/2015/05/12/verizon-to-buy-aol-for-44-billion.html|publisher=CNBC|access-date=May 12, 2015|date=May 12, 2015|archive-date=July 3, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150703103324/https://www.cnbc.com/id/102670331|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Sawers |first=Paul |url=https://venturebeat.com/2015/06/23/verizon-completes-4-4b-acquisition-of-aol/ |title=Verizon completes $4.4B acquisition of AOL |work=VentureBeat |date=June 23, 2015 |access-date=June 23, 2015 |archive-date=June 23, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150623184318/http://venturebeat.com/2015/06/23/verizon-completes-4-4b-acquisition-of-aol/ |url-status=live }}</ref> In June 2017, Verizon combined AOL and Yahoo into its subsidiary Oath Inc. (now called [[Verizon Media|Yahoo]]). The company discontinued AIM as a service on December 15, 2017.<ref name="retirement">{{cite web |last=Albers |first=Michael |date=October 6, 2017 |title=One Last Away Message |url=https://aimemories.tumblr.com/ |url-status=live |access-date=October 5, 2017 |work=AOL Instant Messenger (AIM) on Tumblr |publisher=[[Oath Inc.]] |archive-date=October 6, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171006144753/https://aimemories.tumblr.com/ }}</ref> | |||
In June 2015, AOL was acquired by [[Verizon Communications]].<ref name="buyout-cnbc">{{cite news|last1=Imbert|first1=Fred|title=Verizon to buy AOL for $4.4B; AOL shares soar|url=https://www.cnbc.com/2015/05/12/verizon-to-buy-aol-for-44-billion.html|publisher=CNBC|access-date=May 12, 2015|date=May 12, 2015|archive-date=July 3, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150703103324/https://www.cnbc.com/id/102670331|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Sawers |first=Paul |url=https://venturebeat.com/2015/06/23/verizon-completes-4-4b-acquisition-of-aol/ |title=Verizon completes $4.4B acquisition of AOL |work=VentureBeat |date=June 23, 2015 |access-date=June 23, 2015 |archive-date=June 23, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150623184318/http://venturebeat.com/2015/06/23/verizon-completes-4-4b-acquisition-of-aol/ |url-status=live }}</ref> In June 2017, Verizon combined AOL and Yahoo into its subsidiary Oath Inc. (now called [[Verizon Media|Yahoo]]). The company discontinued AIM as a service on December 15, 2017.<ref name="retirement">{{cite web |last=Albers |first=Michael |date=October 6, 2017 |title=One Last Away Message |url=https://aimemories.tumblr.com/ |url-status=live |access-date=October 5, 2017 |work=AOL Instant Messenger (AIM) on Tumblr |publisher=[[Oath Inc.]] |archive-date=October 6, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171006144753/https://aimemories.tumblr.com/ }}</ref> | |||
==History== | ==History== | ||
In May 1997, AIM was released unceremoniously as a stand-alone download for [[Microsoft Windows]].<ref name="mashable">{{cite news |last1=Abbruzzese |first1=Jason |title=The Rise and Fall of AIM, the Breakthrough AOL Never Wanted |url=https://mashable.com/2014/04/15/aim-history/ |access-date=13 December 2020 |publisher=Mashable |date=15 April 2014 |archive-date=November 27, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201127095841/https://mashable.com/2014/04/15/aim-history/ |url-status=live }}</ref> AIM was an outgrowth of "online messages" in the original platform written in PL/1 on a Stratus computer by Dave Brown. At one time, the software had the largest share of the instant messaging market in North America, especially in the United States (with 52% of the total reported {{as of|2006|lc=y}}).<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bigblueball.com/forums/general-other-im-news/34413-im-market-share.html |title=IM Market Share — BigBlueBall Forums |publisher=Bigblueball.com |access-date=December 4, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101030030304/http://www.bigblueball.com/forums/general-other-im-news/34413-im-market-share.html |archive-date=October 30, 2010 |url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}}</ref> This does not include other instant messaging software related to or developed by AOL, such as [[ICQ]] and [[iChat]]. | In May 1997, AIM was released unceremoniously as a stand-alone download for [[Microsoft Windows]].<ref name="mashable">{{cite news |last1=Abbruzzese |first1=Jason |title=The Rise and Fall of AIM, the Breakthrough AOL Never Wanted |url=https://mashable.com/2014/04/15/aim-history/ |access-date=13 December 2020 |publisher=Mashable |date=15 April 2014 |archive-date=November 27, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201127095841/https://mashable.com/2014/04/15/aim-history/ |url-status=live }}</ref> AIM was an outgrowth of "online messages" in the original platform written in PL/1 on a Stratus computer by Dave Brown. At one time, the software had the largest share of the instant messaging market in North America, especially in the United States (with 52% of the total reported {{as of|2006|lc=y}}).<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bigblueball.com/forums/general-other-im-news/34413-im-market-share.html |title=IM Market Share — BigBlueBall Forums |publisher=Bigblueball.com |access-date=December 4, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101030030304/http://www.bigblueball.com/forums/general-other-im-news/34413-im-market-share.html |archive-date=October 30, 2010 |url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}}</ref> This does not include other instant messaging software related to or developed by AOL, such as [[ICQ]] and [[iChat]]. | ||
During its heyday, its main competitors were [[ICQ]] (which AOL acquired in 1998), [[Yahoo! Messenger]] and [[MSN Messenger]]. AOL particularly had a rivalry or "chat war" with [[PowWow (chat program)|PowWow]] and [[MSN Messenger|Microsoft]], starting in 1999. There were several attempts from Microsoft to simultaneously log into their own and AIM's protocol servers. AOL was unhappy about this and started blocking MSN Messenger from being able to access AIM.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/2014/4/21/5635488/msn-messenger-vs-aol-aim-chat-wars|title=Inside Microsoft's '90s chat war with AOL|first=Tom|last=Warren|date=April 21, 2014|work=theverge.com|access-date=January 15, 2017|archive-date=December 22, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161222065503/http://www.theverge.com/2014/4/21/5635488/msn-messenger-vs-aol-aim-chat-wars|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://nplusonemag.com/issue-19/essays/chat-wars/|title=Chat Wars|date=March 25, 2014|work=nplusonemag.com|access-date=January 15, 2017|archive-date=December 22, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161222205923/https://nplusonemag.com/issue-19/essays/chat-wars/|url-status=live}}</ref> This led to efforts by many companies to challenge the [[AOL-Time Warner|AOL and Time Warner merger]] on the grounds of antitrust behaviour, leading to the formation of the OpenNet Coalition.<ref>{{cite news |title=AOL & Partners Announce Formation of OpenNet Coalition |url=https://www.hpcwire.com/1999/02/05/aol-partners-announce-formation-opennet-coalition/ |access-date=13 December 2020 |work=HPCwire |date=5 February 1999 |archive-date=October 17, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211017093512/https://www.hpcwire.com/1999/02/05/aol-partners-announce-formation-opennet-coalition/ |url-status=live }}</ref> | |||
During its heyday, its main competitors were [[ICQ]] (which AOL acquired in 1998), [[Yahoo! Messenger]] and [[ | |||
[[File:AIM 6.8 screenshot.png|thumb|AIM version 6.8 (released 2008)]] | [[File:AIM 6.8 screenshot.png|thumb|AIM version 6.8 (released 2008)]] | ||
Official mobile versions of AIM appeared as early as 2001 on [[Palm OS]] through the AOL application.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.macworld.com/article/1020672/m105.html|title=Palm introduces new m105 PDA|date=March 6, 2001|website=Macworld|access-date=April 27, 2019|archive-date=April 28, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190428093529/https://www.macworld.com/article/1020672/m105.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Third-party applications allowed it to be used in 2002 for the [[Danger Hiptop|Sidekick]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://bgr.com/2007/10/02/mobile-im-clients-sidekick-helio-ocean-blackberry-iphone-and-more/|title=Mobile IM clients: Sidekick, Helio Ocean, BlackBerry, iPhone, and more|first=Jonathan S.|last=Geller|date=October 2, 2007|work=bgr.com|access-date=January 15, 2017|archive-date=October 14, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171014034509/http://bgr.com/2007/10/02/mobile-im-clients-sidekick-helio-ocean-blackberry-iphone-and-more/|url-status=live}}</ref> A version for [[Symbian OS]] was announced in 2003<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/aol-and-symbian-cosy-up/|title=AOL and Symbian cosy up|first=Ben|last=Charny|website=ZDNet|access-date=April 27, 2019|archive-date=July 26, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200726064328/https://www.zdnet.com/article/aol-and-symbian-cosy-up/|url-status=live}}</ref> as were others for [[BlackBerry]]<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.engadget.com/2007/04/11/get-your-official-blackberry-im-clients-now-if-you-dare/|title=Get your official BlackBerry IM clients now, if you dare|website=Engadget|date=April 11, 2007 |access-date=April 27, 2019|archive-date=April 27, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190427110326/https://www.engadget.com/2007/04/11/get-your-official-blackberry-im-clients-now-if-you-dare/|url-status=live}}</ref> and [[Windows Mobile]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://download.cnet.com/blog/download-blog/aims-windows-mobile-chat-app-nails-a-bullseye/|title=AIM's Windows Mobile chat app nails a bullseye — The Download Blog — CNET Download.com|work=cnet.com|access-date=January 15, 2017|archive-date=October 14, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171014034640/http://download.cnet.com/blog/download-blog/aims-windows-mobile-chat-app-nails-a-bullseye/|url-status=dead}}</ref> | Official mobile versions of AIM appeared as early as 2001 on [[Palm OS]] through the AOL application.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.macworld.com/article/1020672/m105.html|title=Palm introduces new m105 PDA|date=March 6, 2001|website=Macworld|access-date=April 27, 2019|archive-date=April 28, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190428093529/https://www.macworld.com/article/1020672/m105.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Third-party applications allowed it to be used in 2002 for the [[Danger Hiptop|Sidekick]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://bgr.com/2007/10/02/mobile-im-clients-sidekick-helio-ocean-blackberry-iphone-and-more/|title=Mobile IM clients: Sidekick, Helio Ocean, BlackBerry, iPhone, and more|first=Jonathan S.|last=Geller|date=October 2, 2007|work=bgr.com|access-date=January 15, 2017|archive-date=October 14, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171014034509/http://bgr.com/2007/10/02/mobile-im-clients-sidekick-helio-ocean-blackberry-iphone-and-more/|url-status=live}}</ref> A version for [[Symbian OS]] was announced in 2003,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/aol-and-symbian-cosy-up/|title=AOL and Symbian cosy up|first=Ben|last=Charny|website=ZDNet|access-date=April 27, 2019|archive-date=July 26, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200726064328/https://www.zdnet.com/article/aol-and-symbian-cosy-up/|url-status=live}}</ref> as were others for [[BlackBerry]]<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.engadget.com/2007/04/11/get-your-official-blackberry-im-clients-now-if-you-dare/|title=Get your official BlackBerry IM clients now, if you dare|website=Engadget|date=April 11, 2007 |access-date=April 27, 2019|archive-date=April 27, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190427110326/https://www.engadget.com/2007/04/11/get-your-official-blackberry-im-clients-now-if-you-dare/|url-status=live}}</ref> and [[Windows Mobile]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://download.cnet.com/blog/download-blog/aims-windows-mobile-chat-app-nails-a-bullseye/|title=AIM's Windows Mobile chat app nails a bullseye — The Download Blog — CNET Download.com|work=cnet.com|access-date=January 15, 2017|archive-date=October 14, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171014034640/http://download.cnet.com/blog/download-blog/aims-windows-mobile-chat-app-nails-a-bullseye/|url-status=dead}}</ref> | ||
After 2012, stand-alone official AIM client software included advertisements and was available for [[Microsoft Windows]], [[Windows Mobile]], [[Classic Mac OS]], [[macOS]], [[Android (operating system)|Android]], [[iOS]], and [[BlackBerry OS]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://products.aim.com/products |title=Products AIM |publisher=Products AIM |access-date=December 4, 2010 |archive-date=July 1, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100701222359/http://products.aim.com/products |url-status=live }}</ref> | After 2012, stand-alone official AIM client software included advertisements and was available for [[Microsoft Windows]], [[Windows Mobile]], [[Classic Mac OS]], [[macOS]], [[Android (operating system)|Android]], [[iOS]], and [[BlackBerry OS]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://products.aim.com/products |title=Products AIM |publisher=Products AIM |access-date=December 4, 2010 |archive-date=July 1, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100701222359/http://products.aim.com/products |url-status=live }}</ref> | ||
===Usage decline and product sunset=== | ===Usage decline and product sunset=== | ||
After seeing its popularity peak between 1999 and 2005, AIM began to very slowly lose its daily active user base starting with the widespread adoption of [[SMS]] text messaging in the United States that had occurred over the same period. This was further compounded by the gradual rise of [[Google]]'s [[Gmail]] service (specifically the 2005 introduction of [[Google Talk]], its built-in real-time chat feature) between 2004 and 2010. By 2011, apps like Apple [[iMessage]], social network messaging apps like [[Facebook Messenger]], and mobile-first messaging apps such as [[WhatsApp]] had greatly reduced the user base of AIM and other desktop-centric competitors of its generation. AOL sought to compete by adding features such as integration with Google Talk and enabling inbound and outbound SMS text messaging between AIM and any mobile number.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://smallbusiness.chron.com/send-text-messages-aim-account-43122.html|title=How to Send Text Messages to an AIM Account|access-date=September 7, 2021|archive-date=January 22, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230122152520/https://smallbusiness.chron.com/hiding-name-aol-65276.html|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
[[File:AIM 2013 screenshot.png|thumb|left|Windows version of AIM (2013 release)]] | |||
Despite this, one source reported in June 2011 that AOL Instant Messenger's market share had collapsed to 0.73%.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.opswat.com/sites/default/files/OPSWAT-Market-Share-Report-June-2011.pdf|title=OPSWAT Market Share Report June 2011|publisher=opswat.com|access-date=August 11, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130102180321/http://www.opswat.com/sites/default/files/OPSWAT-Market-Share-Report-June-2011.pdf|archive-date=January 2, 2013|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}}</ref> However, this number only reflected installed IM applications, and not active users. The engineers responsible for AIM claimed that they were unable to convince AOL management that free was the future.<ref name="mashable"/> | |||
On March 3, 2012, AOL | On March 3, 2012, AOL laid-off most of AIM's development staff while leaving the service active with help support still provided.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://gizmodo.com/5893031/aim-is-unofficially-dead|title=AIM Is (Unofficially) Dead (Updated)|first=Sam|last=Biddle|work=gizmodo.com|date=March 13, 2012|access-date=January 15, 2017|archive-date=February 15, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170215091647/http://gizmodo.com/5893031/aim-is-unofficially-dead|url-status=live}}</ref> On October 6, 2017, it was announced that the AIM service would be completely discontinued on December 15 of that year;<ref>{{cite web|url=https://help.aol.com/articles/aim-discontinued|title=AIM Sunset|work=AOL Help Article|access-date=October 6, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171006155404/https://help.aol.com/articles/aim-discontinued|archive-date=October 6, 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="retirement" /><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/talkingtech/2017/10/06/rip-aim-aol-instant-messenger-dies-december/739076001/|title=RIP AIM: AOL Instant Messenger dies in December|first=Brett|last=Molina|work=[[USA Today]]|date=October 6, 2017|access-date=October 6, 2017|archive-date=July 25, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200725054235/https://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/talkingtech/2017/10/06/rip-aim-aol-instant-messenger-dies-december/739076001/|url-status=live}}</ref> however, a non-profit development team known as Wildman Productions started up a server for older versions of AOL Instant Messenger, known as AIM Phoenix.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/2018/06/26/aols-instant-messenger-back-aim-phoenix/736383002/|title=AOL's instant messenger is back: Meet AIM Phoenix|first=Dalvin|last=Brown|work=[[USA Today]]|date=June 26, 2018|access-date=November 12, 2018|archive-date=November 13, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181113075652/https://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/2018/06/26/aols-instant-messenger-back-aim-phoenix/736383002/|url-status=live}}</ref> | ||
{{clear}} | |||
== The "Running Man"== | == The "Running Man"== | ||
[[File:Farm-Fresh aol messenger.png|thumb | [[File:Farm-Fresh aol messenger.png|thumb|The "Running Man"]] | ||
The AIM mascot was designed by JoRoan Lazaro and was implemented in the first release in 1997. This was a yellow [[stick figure|stickman]]-like figure, often called the "Running Man". AIM's popularity in the late 1990s and the 2000s led to the “Running Man” becoming a familiar brand on the Internet. After over 14 years, the iconic logo disappeared as part of the AIM rebranding in 2011. However, in August 2013, the "Running Man" returned.<ref name="theatlantic.com">{{cite web|url=https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2014/12/the-story-behind-aols-iconic-yellow-running-man/383652/|title=The Story Behind AOL's Iconic Yellow Running Man|first=Adrienne|last=LaFrance|work=theatlantic.com|date=December 11, 2014|access-date=January 15, 2017|archive-date=October 31, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161031133627/http://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2014/12/the-story-behind-aols-iconic-yellow-running-man/383652/|url-status=live}}</ref> It was used for other AOL services like AOL Top Speed | [[File:Logo of AOL Instant Messenger (2011).png|thumb|upright|AIM's logo introduced in December 2011, replacing the earlier "running man" mascot]] | ||
The AIM mascot was designed by JoRoan Lazaro and was implemented in the first release in 1997. This was a yellow [[stick figure|stickman]]-like figure, often called the "Running Man". AIM's popularity in the late 1990s and the 2000s led to the “Running Man” becoming a familiar brand on the Internet. After over 14 years, the iconic logo disappeared as part of the AIM rebranding in 2011. However, in August 2013, the "Running Man" returned.<ref name="theatlantic.com">{{cite web|url=https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2014/12/the-story-behind-aols-iconic-yellow-running-man/383652/|title=The Story Behind AOL's Iconic Yellow Running Man|first=Adrienne|last=LaFrance|work=theatlantic.com|date=December 11, 2014|access-date=January 15, 2017|archive-date=October 31, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161031133627/http://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2014/12/the-story-behind-aols-iconic-yellow-running-man/383652/|url-status=live}}</ref> It was used for other AOL services like AOL Top Speed. It is still featured in a theme on [[AOL Mail]] and seen on the AOL.com homepage to promote the AOL Today newsletter.<ref>http://www.aol.com</ref> | |||
In 2014, a ''[[Complex (magazine)|Complex]]'' editor called it a "symbol of America".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://uk.complex.com/style/2014/12/aol-designer-explains-the-companys-iconic-yellow-running-man-logo|title=AOL Designer Explains the Company's Iconic Yellow Running Man Logo|work=complex.com|access-date=January 15, 2017|archive-date=November 24, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151124164607/http://uk.complex.com/style/2014/12/aol-designer-explains-the-companys-iconic-yellow-running-man-logo|url-status=live}}</ref> In April 2015, the Running Man was officially featured in the [[London Marathon|Virgin London Marathon]], dressed by a person for the AOL-partnered [[WE Charity|Free The Children]] charity.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.advertising.aol.co.uk/2015/03/31/aol-s-running-man-takes-part-in-london-marathon-in-support-of-fr/|title=AOL's Running Man takes part in London Marathon in Support of Free The Children|work=aol.co.uk|access-date=January 15, 2017|archive-date=March 4, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304102300/http://www.advertising.aol.co.uk/2015/03/31/aol-s-running-man-takes-part-in-london-marathon-in-support-of-fr/|url-status=dead}}</ref> | In 2014, a ''[[Complex (magazine)|Complex]]'' editor called it a "symbol of America".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://uk.complex.com/style/2014/12/aol-designer-explains-the-companys-iconic-yellow-running-man-logo|title=AOL Designer Explains the Company's Iconic Yellow Running Man Logo|work=complex.com|access-date=January 15, 2017|archive-date=November 24, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151124164607/http://uk.complex.com/style/2014/12/aol-designer-explains-the-companys-iconic-yellow-running-man-logo|url-status=live}}</ref> In April 2015, the Running Man was officially featured in the [[London Marathon|Virgin London Marathon]], dressed by a person for the AOL-partnered [[WE Charity|Free The Children]] charity.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.advertising.aol.co.uk/2015/03/31/aol-s-running-man-takes-part-in-london-marathon-in-support-of-fr/|title=AOL's Running Man takes part in London Marathon in Support of Free The Children|work=aol.co.uk|access-date=January 15, 2017|archive-date=March 4, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304102300/http://www.advertising.aol.co.uk/2015/03/31/aol-s-running-man-takes-part-in-london-marathon-in-support-of-fr/|url-status=dead}}</ref> | ||
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==Privacy== | ==Privacy== | ||
For privacy regulations, AIM had strict age restrictions. AIM accounts are available only for people over the age of 13; children younger than that were not permitted access to AIM.<ref name="6 Facts About AIM's Privacy Policy">{{cite web|url=http://im.about.com/od/promotingimsafety/a/aim-privacy.htm|title=AIM Privacy -- Terms of Service Policy -- AIM Privacy|author=Brandon De Hoyos|work=About.com Tech|access-date=August 10, 2015|archive-date=September 28, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150928122933/http://im.about.com/od/promotingimsafety/a/aim-privacy.htm|url-status=dead}}</ref> | For privacy regulations, AIM had strict age restrictions. AIM accounts are available only for people over the age of 13; children younger than that were not permitted access to AIM.<ref name="6 Facts About AIM's Privacy Policy">{{cite web|url=http://im.about.com/od/promotingimsafety/a/aim-privacy.htm|title=AIM Privacy -- Terms of Service Policy -- AIM Privacy|author=Brandon De Hoyos|work=About.com Tech|access-date=August 10, 2015|archive-date=September 28, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150928122933/http://im.about.com/od/promotingimsafety/a/aim-privacy.htm|url-status=dead}}</ref> Under the AIM Privacy Policy, AOL had no rights to read or monitor any private communications between users. The profile of the user had no privacy.<ref name="6 Facts About AIM's Privacy Policy" /> | ||
Under the AIM Privacy Policy, AOL had no rights to read or monitor any private communications between users. The profile of the user had no privacy.<ref name="6 Facts About AIM's Privacy Policy" /> | |||
In November 2002, AOL targeted the corporate industry with Enterprise AIM Services (EAS), a higher security version of AIM.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.computerworld.com/article/2578769/aol-takes-aim-at-corporate-instant-messaging-users.html|title=AOL Takes AIM at Corporate Instant Messaging Users|first=Todd R.|last=Weiss|date=November 11, 2002|website=Computerworld|access-date=April 27, 2019|archive-date=April 27, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190427110333/https://www.computerworld.com/article/2578769/aol-takes-aim-at-corporate-instant-messaging-users.html|url-status=live}}</ref> | In November 2002, AOL targeted the corporate industry with Enterprise AIM Services (EAS), a higher security version of AIM.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.computerworld.com/article/2578769/aol-takes-aim-at-corporate-instant-messaging-users.html|title=AOL Takes AIM at Corporate Instant Messaging Users|first=Todd R.|last=Weiss|date=November 11, 2002|website=Computerworld|access-date=April 27, 2019|archive-date=April 27, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190427110333/https://www.computerworld.com/article/2578769/aol-takes-aim-at-corporate-instant-messaging-users.html|url-status=live}}</ref> | ||
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===iPhone application=== | ===iPhone application=== | ||
On March 6, 2008, during [[Apple Inc.]]'s [[IOS SDK|iPhone SDK]] event, AOL announced that they would be releasing an AIM application for [[iPhone]] and [[iPod Touch]] users. The application was available for free from the App Store, but the company also provided a paid version, which displayed no advertisements. Both were available from the [[App Store (iOS)|App Store]]. The AIM client for [[iPhone]] and [[iPod Touch]] supported standard AIM accounts, as well as [[MobileMe]] accounts. There was also an express version of AIM accessible through the [[Safari (web browser)|Safari]] browser on the iPhone and iPod Touch.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.macrumors.com/2008/03/06/apple-releases-iphone-sdk-demos-spore-instant-messaging/ |title=Apple Releases iPhone SDK, Demos Spore, Instant Messaging |publisher=Mac Rumors |date=2008-03-06 |access-date=2010-12-04 |archive-date=June 16, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080616203828/http://www.macrumors.com/2008/03/06/apple-releases-iphone-sdk-demos-spore-instant-messaging/ |url-status=live }}</ref> | On March 6, 2008, during [[Apple Inc.|Apple]]'s [[IOS SDK|iPhone SDK]] event, AOL announced that they would be releasing an AIM application for [[iPhone]] and [[iPod Touch]] users. The application was available for free from the App Store, but the company also provided a paid version, which displayed no advertisements. Both were available from the [[App Store (iOS)|App Store]]. The AIM client for [[iPhone]] and [[iPod Touch]] supported standard AIM accounts, as well as [[MobileMe]] accounts. There was also an express version of AIM accessible through the [[Safari (web browser)|Safari]] browser on the iPhone and iPod Touch.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.macrumors.com/2008/03/06/apple-releases-iphone-sdk-demos-spore-instant-messaging/ |title=Apple Releases iPhone SDK, Demos Spore, Instant Messaging |publisher=Mac Rumors |date=2008-03-06 |access-date=2010-12-04 |archive-date=June 16, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080616203828/http://www.macrumors.com/2008/03/06/apple-releases-iphone-sdk-demos-spore-instant-messaging/ |url-status=live }}</ref> | ||
In 2011, AOL launched an overhaul of their Instant Messaging service. Included in the update was a brand new [[iOS]] application for iPhone and [[iPod Touch]] that incorporated all the latest features. A brand new icon was used for the application, featuring the new cursive logo for AIM. The user-interface was entirely redone for the features including: a new buddy list, group messaging, in-line photos and videos, as well as improved file-sharing.<ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2396491,00.asp/ |title=AOL Overhauls AIM, Adds New iPhone App |magazine=PC Magazine |date=2011-11-16 |access-date=2012-03-25 |archive-date=July 22, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180722112121/https://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2396491,00.asp |url-status=live }}</ref> | In 2011, AOL launched an overhaul of their Instant Messaging service. Included in the update was a brand new [[iOS]] application for iPhone and [[iPod Touch]] that incorporated all the latest features. A brand new icon was used for the application, featuring the new cursive logo for AIM. The user-interface was entirely redone for the features including: a new buddy list, group messaging, in-line photos and videos, as well as improved file-sharing.<ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2396491,00.asp/ |title=AOL Overhauls AIM, Adds New iPhone App |magazine=PC Magazine |date=2011-11-16 |access-date=2012-03-25 |archive-date=July 22, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180722112121/https://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2396491,00.asp |url-status=live }}</ref> | ||
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'''AIM Pages''' was a free website released in May 2006 by [[AOL]] in replacement of AIMSpace.<ref>{{cite web|last=Cashmore|first=Pete|title=AIM Pages|date=May 11, 2006|url=http://mashable.com/2006/05/10/aimpages-not-as-lame-as-youd-expect/|publisher=Mashable|accessdate=24 September 2012|archive-date=June 15, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210615125326/https://mashable.com/2006/05/10/aimpages-not-as-lame-as-youd-expect/|url-status=live}}</ref> Anyone who had an [[AOL Instant Messenger|AIM]] [[User (computing)|user name]] and was at least 16 years of age could create their own [[web page]] (to display an online, dynamic profile) and share it with buddies from their AIM Buddy list. | '''AIM Pages''' was a free website released in May 2006 by [[AOL]] in replacement of AIMSpace.<ref>{{cite web|last=Cashmore|first=Pete|title=AIM Pages|date=May 11, 2006|url=http://mashable.com/2006/05/10/aimpages-not-as-lame-as-youd-expect/|publisher=Mashable|accessdate=24 September 2012|archive-date=June 15, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210615125326/https://mashable.com/2006/05/10/aimpages-not-as-lame-as-youd-expect/|url-status=live}}</ref> Anyone who had an [[AOL Instant Messenger|AIM]] [[User (computing)|user name]] and was at least 16 years of age could create their own [[web page]] (to display an online, dynamic profile) and share it with buddies from their AIM Buddy list. | ||
AIM Pages included links to the [[email]] and Instant Message of the owner, along with a section listing the owners "buddies", which included AIM [[User (computing)|user names]]. It was possible to create modules in a Module T [[microformat]].<ref name="wikipedia1">[[AOL Instant Messenger#AIM Pages]]</ref> Video hosting sites like [[Netflix]] and [[YouTube]] could be added to ones AIM Page, as well as other sites like [[Amazon.com]]. It was also possible to insert [[HTML|HTML code]]. | AIM Pages included links to the [[email]] and Instant Message of the owner, along with a section listing the owners "buddies", which included AIM [[User (computing)|user names]]. It was possible to create modules in a Module T [[microformat]].<ref name="wikipedia1">[[AOL Instant Messenger#AIM Pages]]</ref> Video hosting sites like [[Netflix]] and [[YouTube]] could be added to ones AIM Page, as well as other sites like [[Amazon.com]]. It was also possible to insert [[HTML|HTML code]]. | ||
The main focus of AIM Pages was the integration of external modules, like those listed above, into the AOL Instant Messenger experience.<ref name="macmanus1">{{cite web|last=MacManus|first=Richard|title=AIM Pages - AOL Breaking Down the Walled Garden|url=http://www.readwriteweb.com/archives/aim_pages_aol_b.php|accessdate=24 September 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120519070114/http://www.readwriteweb.com/archives/aim_pages_aol_b.php|archive-date=2012-05-19|url-status=dead}}</ref> | The main focus of AIM Pages was the integration of external modules, like those listed above, into the AOL Instant Messenger experience.<ref name="macmanus1">{{cite web|last=MacManus|first=Richard|title=AIM Pages - AOL Breaking Down the Walled Garden|url=http://www.readwriteweb.com/archives/aim_pages_aol_b.php|accessdate=24 September 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120519070114/http://www.readwriteweb.com/archives/aim_pages_aol_b.php|archive-date=2012-05-19|url-status=dead}}</ref> | ||
By late 2007, AIM Pages were discontinued.<ref name="wikipedia1"/> After AIM Pages shutdown, links to AIM Pages were redirected to [[AOL Lifestream]],<ref name="macmanus1" /> AOL's new site aimed at collecting external modules in one place, independent of AIM buddies.<ref>{{cite web|title=AOL Lifestream|url=http://lifestream.aol.com/help/learnmore|accessdate=24 September 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120923134924/http://lifestream.aol.com/help/learnmore|archive-date=23 September 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref> AOL Lifestream was shut down February 24, 2017.<ref>{{Cite web|title=AOL Lifestream Sunset Notification|url=https://help.aol.com/articles/aol-lifestream-sunset-notification|url-status=live|access-date=2021-06-17|website=AOL Help|language=en-US|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170926144012/https://help.aol.com/articles/aol-lifestream-sunset-notification|archive-date=September 26, 2017}}</ref> | By late 2007, AIM Pages were discontinued.<ref name="wikipedia1"/> After AIM Pages shutdown, links to AIM Pages were redirected to [[AOL Lifestream]],<ref name="macmanus1" /> AOL's new site aimed at collecting external modules in one place, independent of AIM buddies.<ref>{{cite web|title=AOL Lifestream|url=http://lifestream.aol.com/help/learnmore|accessdate=24 September 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120923134924/http://lifestream.aol.com/help/learnmore|archive-date=23 September 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref> AOL Lifestream was shut down February 24, 2017.<ref>{{Cite web|title=AOL Lifestream Sunset Notification|url=https://help.aol.com/articles/aol-lifestream-sunset-notification|url-status=live|access-date=2021-06-17|website=AOL Help|language=en-US|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170926144012/https://help.aol.com/articles/aol-lifestream-sunset-notification|archive-date=September 26, 2017}}</ref> | ||
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===AIM to mobile (messaging to phone numbers)=== | ===AIM to mobile (messaging to phone numbers)=== | ||
This feature allows text messaging to a phone number ([[Message#Increasing competition|text messaging is less functional]] than instant messaging).<ref>{{cite web|title=How-To use AIM to send a Text Message to a phone|url=https://www.engadget.com/2004/07/13/how-to-use-aol-instant-messenger-to-send-a-text-message-to-a|website=engadget.com|date=July 13, 2004|access-date=August 23, 2017|archive-date=October 7, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171007124714/https://www.engadget.com/2004/07/13/how-to-use-aol-instant-messenger-to-send-a-text-message-to-a/|url-status=live}}</ref> | This feature allows text messaging to a phone number ([[Message#Increasing competition|text messaging is less functional]] than instant messaging).<ref>{{cite web|title=How-To use AIM to send a Text Message to a phone|url=https://www.engadget.com/2004/07/13/how-to-use-aol-instant-messenger-to-send-a-text-message-to-a|website=engadget.com|date=July 13, 2004|access-date=August 23, 2017|archive-date=October 7, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171007124714/https://www.engadget.com/2004/07/13/how-to-use-aol-instant-messenger-to-send-a-text-message-to-a/|url-status=live}}</ref> | ||
===AIM Phoneline=== | ===AIM Phoneline=== | ||
'''AIM Phoneline''' was a [[Voice over IP]] PC-PC, PC-Phone and Phone-to-PC service<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.timewarner.com/corp/newsroom/pr/0,20812,1194787,00.html|title=AOL Launches AIM Phoneline|access-date=August 10, 2015|archive-date=September 27, 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070927010705/http://www.timewarner.com/corp/newsroom/pr/0,20812,1194787,00.html|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.internetnews.com/infra/article.php/3604556 |title=Free Calls From AIM |access-date=June 22, 2021 |archive-date=June 24, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210624204147/http://www.internetnews.com/infra/article.php/3604556 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web| url = https://www.usatoday.com/tech/news/2006-05-04-aim-phone_x.htm| title = AOL's 'AIM Phoneline' offers free local phone number| website = [[USA Today]]| access-date = June 22, 2021| archive-date = July 4, 2012| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120704000431/http://www.usatoday.com/tech/news/2006-05-04-aim-phone_x.htm| url-status = live}}</ref> provided via the AIM application. It was also known to work with Apple's iChat Client. | '''AIM Phoneline''' was a [[Voice over IP]] PC-PC, PC-Phone and Phone-to-PC service<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.timewarner.com/corp/newsroom/pr/0,20812,1194787,00.html|title=AOL Launches AIM Phoneline|access-date=August 10, 2015|archive-date=September 27, 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070927010705/http://www.timewarner.com/corp/newsroom/pr/0,20812,1194787,00.html|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.internetnews.com/infra/article.php/3604556 |title=Free Calls From AIM |access-date=June 22, 2021 |archive-date=June 24, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210624204147/http://www.internetnews.com/infra/article.php/3604556 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web| url = https://www.usatoday.com/tech/news/2006-05-04-aim-phone_x.htm| title = AOL's 'AIM Phoneline' offers free local phone number| website = [[USA Today]]| access-date = June 22, 2021| archive-date = July 4, 2012| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120704000431/http://www.usatoday.com/tech/news/2006-05-04-aim-phone_x.htm| url-status = live}}</ref> provided via the AIM application. It was also known to work with Apple's iChat Client. Launched on May 16, 2006, AIM Phoneline provided users the ability to have several local numbers, allowing AIM users to receive free incoming calls.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://labnol.blogspot.ca/2006/05/aim-phoneline-free-phone-number-for.html|title=AIM Phoneline: Free Phone number for AOL Messenger users|access-date=August 10, 2015|archive-date=October 15, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151015202315/http://labnol.blogspot.ca/2006/05/aim-phoneline-free-phone-number-for.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The service allowed users to make calls to landlines and mobile devices through the use of a computer. The service, however, was only free for receiving and AOL charged users $14.95 a month for an unlimited calling plan.<ref name="pcworld.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.pcworld.com/article/126005/first_look_aim_phoneline_and_skype_25.html|title=First Look: AIM Phoneline and Skype 2.5|date=June 19, 2006|work=PCWorld|access-date=August 10, 2015|archive-date=January 22, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110122234131/http://www.pcworld.com/article/126005/first_look_aim_phoneline_and_skype_25.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> In order to use AIM Phoneline users had to install the latest free version of AIM Triton software and needed a good set of headphones with a boom microphone. It could take several days after a user signed up before it started working.<ref name="pcworld.com" /> | ||
The service was officially closed on January 13, 2009. The closing of the free service caused the number associated with the service to be disabled and not transferable for a different service.<ref>{{cite web|title=Free AIM Phoneline Service Closing on January 13, 2009 — VOIP Tech Chat — DSLReports Forums|url=http://www.dslreports.com/forum/r21456143-Free-AIM-Phoneline-Service-Closing-on-January-13-2009|access-date=August 10, 2015|archive-date=September 23, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150923220732/http://www.dslreports.com/forum/r21456143-Free-AIM-Phoneline-Service-Closing-on-January-13-2009|url-status=live}}</ref> AIM Phoneline website recommended users switch to a new service named AIM Call Out.<ref>[http://voice.aol.com/help/aim-phoneline/faq/is-the-registration-path-for-free-aim-phoneline-shut-down Is the registration path for FREE AIM Phoneline shut down?] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081018180858/http://voice.aol.com/help/aim-phoneline/faq/is-the-registration-path-for-free-aim-phoneline-shut-down|date=October 18, 2008}}</ref> | |||
===AIM Call Out=== | ===AIM Call Out=== | ||
AIM Call Out | AIM Call Out was a Voice over IP PC-PC, PC-Phone and Phone-to-PC service provided by AOL via its AIM application that replaced the defunct AIM Phoneline service in November 2007.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.aimphoneline.com/?promo=784114&flv=1&ncid=oyjqUzrKfk0000000465&icid=one_click.M|title=Looking for AIM Phoneline?|publisher=Aimphoneline.com|access-date=2008-10-02|archive-date=February 24, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210224142304/http://www.aimphoneline.com/?promo=784114&flv=1&ncid=oyjqUzrKfk0000000465&icid=one_click.M|url-status=dead}}</ref> It did not depend on the AIM client and could be used with only an AIM screenname via the WebConnect feature or a dedicated SIP device. The AIM Call Out service was shut down on March 25, 2009.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://voice.aol.com/|title=AOL Voice Services no longer offers new registrations|website=AOL.com|access-date=2014-12-18|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141218012459/http://voice.aol.com/|archive-date=December 18, 2014|df=mdy-all}}</ref> | ||
==See also== | ==See also== | ||