AOL Upgrades Flash And Mobile Versions Of AIM
New York – AOL today took the wraps off of two new AIM updates geared toward keeping the mobile user connected, AIM Express 7.0, a new Flash-based Web version of its popular AIM service, enabling users to chat with friends and family without having to install software.
So users can now say goodbye to all previously annoying presumptions on the part of AIM software, as the present Aim Express runs in a pop-up browser window and is intended for computer users who are unwilling or unable to install the regular AIM software.
Among the new AIM Express 7.0 features that now include tabbed IM conversations to avoid having multiple windows open within a single screen. Users will also be able to post text-messages that will be displayed even if they are not online, and view their buddies’ statuses and away messages by rolling their mouse over screen names.
“Friends signed off? Send them text messages via AIM Express by typing their cell phones numbers on your buddy list.”
AOL claims the flash based AIM Express is compatible with many of the standard features included in the stand-alone client, but does not provide advanced features like file transfer, audio chat, video conferencing, or Buddy Info. It is implemented in DHTML and is an upgrade to the previous AIM Quick Buddy. Quick Buddy will still be available for older systems that cannot handle Express.
The announcement of AIM Express is an example of the growing utility and sophistication of Web-based applications. AIM Express is compatible with most popular Web browsers, including Microsoft’s Internet Explorer 6 and 7, Mozilla’s Firefox 2 and 3, and Apple’s Safari 2 and 3 for Mac users.
Available at http://www.aim.com/aimexpress.adp, AIM Express offers users a clean design and a richer Web-based instant messaging experience with easy access to their buddies from nearly anywhere.
“AIM Express raises the bar with its streamlined design and lightweight messaging experience,” said David Liu, Senior Vice President, AOL People Networks. “It is now even easier for AIM users, especially those on-the-go to connect with friends whether at home, at a coffee shop, the library, or wherever they have Web access.”
In addition with today’s launch of AIM Express, AIM is also now available for Windows Mobile, the company said. Users with smartphones like Motorola Q, Samsung BlackJack and certain Palm Treos can now enjoy all the best features of AIM for the desktop while on-the-go, such as status messages and buddy icons.
Furthermore, AIM for Windows Mobile also gives users the choice of sending text messages via SMS. Advertising will be supported by Third Screen Media, Platform-A’s mobile ad serving platform and network. AIM for Windows Mobile supports devices using the Windows Mobile 5 and 6 operating systems and is available for free from here.
AIM and ICQ are part of AOL’s People Networks business unit that includes social media network Bebo, widget Technology Company Goowy Media and social search question and answer service Yedda. People Networks’ collection of community platforms reaches 80 million users worldwide.