Cheaper than the phone, quicker than email, download AOL’s free software to communicate with fellow users!!!!!!!!!!
For years I was an AOL user until I became frustrated and switched to Roadrunner (go see my Roadrunner opinion at
https://cdfrye120.epinions.com/cmd-review-1103-25FAAFD5-3A1E9F25-prod5). I felt somewhat isolated with the change since so many of my friend were still AOL users and was looking for a solution. AOL Instant Messenger Service has turned out to be perfect for my needs.
Note: This opinion is on AIM version 4.1.1068 for the MACINTOSH. I happen to know that the PC version has some different features, more and better in some cases, so if you are a PC user you may want to look for an opinion by a PC user to more fully describe that end of it. Just trying to save you time, be fair, etc.
Anyway......
Here’s what this little program has to offer.
As with AOL’s buddy list system you can set up a list of people that you frequently communicate with. This is an easy to navigate folder tab type set up; very simple to use. The categories you can use include Buddies, Family and Co-workers. Once you have this you can see your buddies’ names when they sign on accompanied by a sound of an opening door and an icon by their name for what type of connection they are using (ie an aol triangle if they are using AOL or a globe for internet users).
To IM a buddy all you have to do is double click on their name, or use the little IM button underneath the window. It’s as easy as that.
The features that attracted me to this program as opposed to others such as MSN include the news ticker that runs across the screen with all of latest happenings as well as the stock ticker. I also love the smiley face library that you can use as you chat - there are smiles, frowns, sticking out your tongue, winks, kissy face, uh oh (I really like that one) yelling, big grin, put your money where your mouth is, foot in mouth, embarrassed, angel, hmmm, crying, my lips are sealed, and joe cool. You have to see these, they’re cute. Be careful though, too frequent use of these guys can irritate your friends.....
You can select an Icon from the library that comes with the software to send to your buddies when you IM. It is also possible to create one yourself, just be sure to keep it small.
As with AOL you can change the color of the text or background as well as the font and size. You can also set it up to speak the text as it comes in with several different voices to choose from. I find this annoying so I don’t do this.
You can send your buddies images by establishing an IM image link as well as sharing files. This can be a useful trick, especially if you are talking to a co-worker working on a project together or if you want to send family pictures to a relative.
There are community chat room for you to use as well if that suits your fancy. I generally don’t do this - I like to choose carefully who I converse with.
Also, it’s easy to invite friends to download the program - go to People menu and click on Sign On A Friend. All you have to do is enter their email address and a brief personal message. AOL will tell you when they sign up (for free of course) and will tell you their screen name.
If you are former user of AOL and would like to get the best features of AOL without the lousy service this program is definitely for you.