AIM (software) | Solutional Webdesign Antwerpen

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AIM, short for AOL Instant Messenger, is a software application that was initially developed and launched by AOL in May 1997. Serving as an instant messaging^[1] and presence computer^[2] program, it allowed users to communicate in real-time with each other over the internet^[3]. AIM was popular due to its diverse features such as chatbots, dynamic profiles, voice services, and applications for various devices. However, its popularity declined due to the rise of other platforms like Gmail^[5] and social networking apps. Despite being discontinued in December 2017, AIM left a significant impact on instant messaging services, and even saw an attempt at revival by a non-profit team. It’s worth noting that the software had some security^[4] vulnerabilities and received criticism for its encryption and security flaws.

Terms definitions

1. ↑ instant messaging. Instant Messaging (IM) is a digital communication method that enables real-time transmission of text-based messages over internet or computer networks. Unlike email, IM facilitates immediate, interactive conversation, often enhanced with emojis, file transfers, voice-over IP, and video chat. IM systems can function independently or as part of a larger social media platform. They have evolved significantly since early systems like Talkomatic and CompuServe CB Simulator, developing into graphical user interfaces with a wide range of features. Today's popular services, including Signal, Telegram, WhatsApp, and Snapchat, offer private and group messaging, advanced security measures such as end-to-end encryption, and integration with social networks. They play a vital role in both personal communication and business environments, facilitating effective real-time communication with conversation records for future reference.

2. ↑ computer. A computer is a sophisticated device that manipulates data or information according to a set of instructions, known as programs. By design, computers can perform a wide range of tasks, from simple arithmetic calculations to complex data processing and analysis. They have evolved over the years, starting from primitive counting tools like abacus to modern digital machines. The heart of a computer is its central processing unit (CPU), which includes an arithmetic logic unit (ALU) for performing mathematical operations and registers for storing data. Computers also have memory units, like ROM and RAM, for storing information. Other components include input/output (I/O) devices that allow interaction with the machine and integrated circuits that enhance the computer's functionality. Key historical innovations, like the invention of the first programmable computer by Charles Babbage and the development of the first automatic electronic digital computer, the Atanasoff-Berry Computer (ABC), have greatly contributed to their evolution. Today, computers power the Internet, linking billions of users worldwide and have become an essential tool in almost every industry.

AIM (software) (Wikipedia)

AIM (AOL Instant Messenger, sometimes stylized as aim) was an instant messaging and presence computer program created by AOL, which used the proprietary OSCAR instant messaging protocol and the TOC protocol to allow registered users to communicate in real time.

AIM
AIM's logo introduced in December 2011, replacing the earlier "running man" mascot
Windows version of AIM (2013 release)
Developer(s)	AOL
Initial release	May 1997; 26 years ago (1997-05)
Written in	C++, Adobe Flash
Operating system	Microsoft Windows, Windows Mobile, macOS, Android, iOS, BlackBerry OS, Android TV
Type	Instant messaging
License	Proprietary
Website	my.screenname.aol.com

AIM was popular by the late 1990s, in United States and other countries, and was the leading instant messaging application in that region into the following decade. 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. AIM's popularity declined as AOL subscribers started decreasing and steeply towards the 2010s, 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.

In June 2015, AOL was acquired by Verizon Communications. In June 2017, Verizon combined AOL and Yahoo into its subsidiary Oath Inc. (now called Yahoo). The company discontinued AIM as a service on December 15, 2017.

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