View source for AIM (software)

{{Short description|Instant messaging service}}
{{pp-move}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=October 2017}}
{{distinguish|AIM alliance{{!}}the AIM alliance}}
{{Infobox software
| name = AOL Instant Messenger
| logo = AIM logo.svg
| logo upright = 1
| logo caption = AIM logo in the early 2000s
| screenshot = AIM 4.7 screenshot.png
| caption = AIM version 4.7, released in 2001
| developer = [[AOL]]
| released = {{start date and age|1997|05}}
| discontinued = yes
| latest release version = <!--?-->
| latest release date = <!--?-->
| programming language = {{hlist | [[C++]] | [[Adobe Flash]]}}
| operating system = {{hlist | [[Microsoft Windows]] | [[Windows Mobile]] | [[macOS]] | [[Android (operating system)|Android]] | [[iOS]] | [[BlackBerry OS]] | [[Android TV]]}}
| genre = [[Instant messaging]]
| license = [[proprietary software|Proprietary]]
| 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>

==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&nbsp;— 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 [[Windows Live Messenger|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>

[[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&nbsp;— The Download Blog&nbsp;— 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>

===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 followed by the quick rise of [[Gmail]] and its 2005 introduction of its built-in real-time chat feature [[Google Talk]]. 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 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"==
[[File:Farm-Fresh aol messenger.png|thumb|The "Running Man"]]
[[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 and is still featured in a theme on [[AOL Mail]].

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>

==Protocol==
The standard protocol that AIM clients used to communicate is called [[OSCAR protocol|Open System for CommunicAtion in Realtime]] (OSCAR). Most AOL-produced versions of AIM and popular third party AIM clients use this protocol. However, AOL also created a simpler protocol called [[TOC protocol|TOC]] that lacks many of OSCAR's features, but was sometimes used for clients that only require basic chat functionality. The TOC/TOC2 protocol specifications were made available by AOL, while OSCAR is a closed protocol that third parties had to reverse-engineer.

In January 2008, AOL introduced experimental [[XMPP|Extensible Messaging and Presence Protocol]] (XMPP) support for AIM,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://florianjensen.com/2008/01/17/aol-adopting-xmpp-aka-jabber/|title=AOL adopting XMPP aka Jabber|date=2008-01-17|access-date=2008-01-17|author=Florian Jensen|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080120143857/http://florianjensen.com/2008/01/17/aol-adopting-xmpp-aka-jabber/|archive-date=January 20, 2008|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}}</ref> allowing AIM users to communicate using the standardized, open-source XMPP. However, in March 2008, this service was discontinued.<ref>{{Cite web|title=XMPP ~ Computer Science ~ 3073 ~ p2k.unhamzah.ac.id|url=http://p2k.unhamzah.ac.id/IT/en/3073-2970/XMPP_2601_p2k-unhamzah.html|access-date=2021-09-27|website=p2k.unhamzah.ac.id|archive-date=September 27, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210927215253/http://p2k.unhamzah.ac.id/IT/en/3073-2970/XMPP_2601_p2k-unhamzah.html|url-status=live}}</ref> In May 2011, AOL started offering limited XMPP support.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.aim.com/xmpp |title=AOL XMPP Gateway |date=2011-05-14 |access-date=2011-05-14 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110522092331/http://www.aim.com/xmpp |archive-date=May 22, 2011 |url-status=dead}}</ref> On March 1, 2017, AOL announced (via XMPP-login-time messages<ref>{{cite web|url=https://pidgin.im/pipermail/support/2017-March/029513.html|title=Fwd: AOL|date=2017-03-01|access-date=March 1, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170302030248/https://pidgin.im/pipermail/support/2017-March/029513.html|archive-date=March 2, 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref>) that the AOL XMPP gateway would be desupported, effective March 28, 2017.

==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> 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>

If public content was accessed, it could be used for online, print or broadcast advertising, etc. This was outlined in the policy and terms of service: "...&nbsp;you grant AOL, its parent, affiliates, subsidiaries, assigns, agents and licensees the irrevocable, perpetual, worldwide right to reproduce, display, perform, distribute, adapt and promote this Content in any medium". This allowed anything users posted to be used without a separate request for permission.<ref name="6 Facts About AIM's Privacy Policy" />

AIM's security was called into question. AOL stated that it had taken great pains to ensure that personal information will not be accessed by unauthorized members, but that it cannot guarantee that it will not happen.<ref name="6 Facts About AIM's Privacy Policy" />

AIM was different from other clients, such as [[Yahoo! Messenger]], in that it did not require approval from users to be added to other users' buddy lists. As a result, it was possible for users to keep other unsuspecting users on their buddy list to see when they were online, read their status and away messages, and read their profiles. There was also a Web API to display one's status and away message as a widget on one's webpage.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://dev.aol.com/data_sheets/WebAIM_Quick_Start_Guide.pdf |title=Integrate Your Site with AIM in 3 Easy Steps |work=AOL Developer Network |publisher=AOL Inc |page=2 |access-date=August 9, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110726062640/http://dev.aol.com/data_sheets/WebAIM_Quick_Start_Guide.pdf |archive-date=July 26, 2011 |url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}}</ref> Though one could block a user from communicating with them and seeing their status, this did not prevent that user from creating a new account that would not automatically be blocked and therefore able to track their status. A more conservative privacy option was to select a menu feature that only allowed communication with users on one's buddy list; however, this option also created the side-effect of blocking all users who were not on one's buddy list. Users could also choose to be invisible to all.

On November 4, 2014, AIM scored one out of seven points on the [[Electronic Frontier Foundation]]'s secure messaging scorecard. AIM received a point for encryption during transit, but lost points because communications are not encrypted with a key to which the provider has no access, ''i.e.'', the communications are not [[End-to-end encryption|end-to-end encrypted]], users can't verify contacts' identities, past messages are not secure if the encryption keys are stolen, (''i.e.'', the service does not provide [[forward secrecy]]), the code is not open to independent review, (''i.e.'', the code is not [[Open-source software|open-source]]), the security design is not properly documented, and there has not been a recent independent security audit.<ref name="secure-messaging-scorecard">{{cite web |url=https://www.eff.org/secure-messaging-scorecard |publisher=[[Electronic Frontier Foundation]] |title=Secure Messaging Scorecard. Which apps and tools actually keep your messages safe? |date=November 4, 2014 |access-date=June 1, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161115054343/https://www.eff.org/secure-messaging-scorecard |archive-date=November 15, 2016 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2471658,00.asp |magazine=[[PC Magazine]] |title=Only 6 Messaging Apps Are Truly Secure |date=November 5, 2014 |access-date=January 8, 2015 |archive-date=September 11, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170911120946/https://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2471658,00.asp |url-status=live }}</ref> [[BlackBerry Messenger|BlackBerry Messenger (BBM)]], [[eBuddy|Ebuddy XMS]], [[Hushmail]], [[Kik Messenger]], [[Skype]], [[Viber]], and [[Yahoo! Messenger]] also scored one out of seven points.<ref name="secure-messaging-scorecard" />

==Chat robots==
AOL and various other companies supplied robots (bots) on AIM that could receive messages and send a response based on the bot's purpose. For example, bots could help with studying, like StudyBuddy. Some were made to relate to children and teenagers, like [[Spleak]].

Others gave advice. The more useful chat bots had features like the ability to play games, get sport scores, weather forecasts or financial stock information. Users were able to talk to automated chat bots that could respond to natural human language. They were primarily put into place as a marketing strategy and for unique advertising options. It was used by advertisers to market products or build better consumer relations.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cnet.com/news/aol-tries-out-new-im-chat-bot/|title=tries out new IM chat bot|date=2003-01-27|access-date=2015-10-27|website=[[CNET]]|archive-date=December 9, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151209025130/http://www.cnet.com/news/aol-tries-out-new-im-chat-bot/|url-status=live}}</ref>

Before the inclusions of such bots, the other bots DoorManBot and AIMOffline provided features that were provided by AOL for those who needed it. ZolaOnAOL and ZoeOnAOL were short-lived bots that ultimately retired their features in favor of [[SmarterChild]].

==URI scheme==
AOL Instant Messenger's installation process automatically installed an extra [[Uniform Resource Identifier|URI scheme]] ("protocol") handler into some Web browsers, so URIs beginning with <code>aim:</code> could open a new AIM window with specified parameters. This was similar in function to the <code>mailto:</code> URI scheme, which created a new e-mail message using the system's default mail program. For instance, a webpage might have included a link like the following in its HTML source to open a window for sending a message to the AIM user ''notarealuser'':
 &lt;a href="aim:goim?screenname=notarealuser"&gt;Send Message&lt;/a&gt;

To specify a message body, the <code>message</code> parameter was used, so the link location would have looked like this:
 aim:goim?screenname=notarealuser&message=This+is+my+message

To specify an away message, the message parameter was used, so the link location would have looked like this:
 aim:goaway?message=Hello,+my+name+is+Bill
When placing this inside a URL link, an AIM user could click on the URL link and the away message "Hello, my name is Bill" would instantly become their away message.

To add a buddy, the addbuddy message was used, with the "screenname" parameter
 aim:addbuddy?screenname=notarealuser
This type of link was commonly found on forum profiles to easily add contacts.

== Vulnerabilities ==
AIM had security weaknesses that have enabled [[exploit (computer security)|exploits]] to be created that used third-party software to perform malicious acts on users' computers.<ref>{{cite web|first1=Jaikumar|last1=Vijayan|accessdate=2024-03-05|title=AOL Instant Messenger vulnerable to hackers|url=https://www.computerworld.com/article/2586310/aol-instant-messenger-vulnerable-to-hackers.html|date=2 January 2002|website=Computerworld}}</ref> Although most were relatively harmless, such as being kicked off the AIM service, others performed potentially dangerous actions, such as sending [[computer virus|viruses]]. Some of these exploits relied on [[social engineering (security)|social engineering]] to spread by automatically sending instant messages that contained a [[URL|Uniform Resource Locator]] (URL) accompanied by text suggesting the receiving user click on it, an action which leads to infection, ''i.e.'', a [[Trojan horse (computing)|trojan horse]]. These messages could easily be mistaken as coming from a friend and contain a link to a Web address that installed software on the user's computer to restart the cycle.{{fact|date=March 2024}}

==Extra features==

===iPhone application===
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>

Version 5.0.5, updated in March 2012, it supported more social stream features, much like Facebook and Twitter, as well as the ability to send voice messages up to 60 seconds long.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://handheld.softpedia.com/get/Chat/AIM-for-iPhone-97755.shtml/ |title=AIM for iPhone 5.0.5 |publisher=Softpedia |date=2012-03-20 |access-date=2012-03-25 |url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111227011258/http://handheld.softpedia.com/get/Chat/AIM-for-iPhone-97755.shtml |archive-date=2011-12-27 }}</ref>

===iPad application===
On April 3, 2010, Apple released the [[IPad (1st generation)|first generation iPad]]. Along with this newly released device AOL released the AIM application for iPad. It was built entirely from scratch for [[IOS version history#iOS 4|the new version of iOS]] with a specialized user-interface for the device. It supported geolocation, [[Facebook]] status updates and chat, [[Myspace]], [[Twitter]], [[YouTube]], [[Foursquare City Guide|Foursquare]], and many other social networking platforms.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.macstories.net/ipad/aim-for-ipad-approved-screenshot/ |title=AIM for iPad Approved, Screenshot |publisher=MacStories |date=2010-04-01 |access-date=2012-03-25 |archive-date=June 21, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100621100705/http://www.macstories.net/ipad/aim-for-ipad-approved-screenshot/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

===AIM Express===
AIM Express ran in a pop-up browser window. It was intended for use by people who are unwilling or unable to install a standalone application or those at computers that lack the AIM application. AIM Express supported many of the standard features included in the stand-alone client, but did not provide advanced features like file transfer, audio chat, video conferencing, or buddy info. It was implemented in [[Adobe Flash]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Products – Express|url=http://www.aim.com/products/express|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101205062532/http://www.aim.com/products/express|archive-date=December 5, 2010|access-date=2010-12-04|publisher=Aim.com}}</ref> It was an upgrade to the prior AOL Quick Buddy, which was later available for older systems that cannot handle Express before being discontinued. Express and Quick Buddy were similar to [[Windows Live Messenger#MSN Web Messenger|MSN Web Messenger]] and [[Yahoo! Messenger#Web Messenger|Yahoo! Web Messenger]]. This web version evolved into AIM.com's web-based messenger.

===AIM Pages===
'''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]].

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>

===AIM for Mac===
AOL released an all-new AIM for the [[Mac (computer)|Mac]] on September 29, 2008, and the final build on December 15, 2008. The redesigned AIM for Mac is a full [[universal binary]] [[Cocoa (API)|Cocoa API]] application that supports both Tiger and Leopard&nbsp;— [[macOS|Mac OS X]] 10.4.8 (and above) or Mac OS X 10.5.3 (and above). On October 1, 2009, AOL released AIM 2.0 for Mac.

===AIM real-time IM===
This feature was available for AIM 7 and allowed for a user to see what the other is typing as it is being done. It was developed and built with assistance from Trace Research and Development Centre at [[University of Wisconsin–Madison]] and [[Gallaudet University]]. The application provides visually impaired users the ability to convert messages from text (words) to speech.<ref name="What is Real-Time IM">{{cite web|url=http://www.aniesoft.com/realtime-im.html|title=What is Real-Time IM? Source: AOL Help|work=aniesoft.com|access-date=January 15, 2017|archive-date=September 23, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160923231752/http://www.aniesoft.com/realtime-im.html|url-status=live}}</ref> For the application to work users must have AIM 6.8 or higher, as it is not compatible with older versions of AIM software, AIM for Mac or iChat.<ref name="What is Real-Time IM" />

===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>

===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. 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&nbsp;— VOIP Tech Chat&nbsp;— 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 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==
* [[Comparison of cross-platform instant messaging clients]]
* [[List of defunct instant messaging platforms]]

==References==
{{Reflist|30em}}

==External links==
{{Commons category}}
* {{Official website}}

{{Instant messaging}}
{{AOL Inc.}}
{{Verizon Media}}

[[Category:1997 software]]
[[Category:AIM (software) clients|*]]
[[Category:Android (operating system) software]]
[[Category:AOL|Instant Messenger]]
[[Category:BlackBerry software]]
[[Category:Classic Mac OS instant messaging clients]]
[[Category:Cross-platform software]]
[[Category:Defunct instant messaging clients]]
[[Category:Instant messaging clients]]
[[Category:Internet properties disestablished in 2017]]
[[Category:IOS software]]
[[Category:MacOS instant messaging clients]]
[[Category:Online chat]]
[[Category:Symbian software]]
[[Category:Unix instant messaging clients]]
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