Instant Messaging

Instant Messaging for All Users

The Newest Phenomenon: IM

Instant messaging, also known as IM, is by far the latest technological phenomenon. This type of advanced technology allows typed messages to be transported through the vastness of cyberspace instantly so that two or more parties can communicate quickly, easily, and immediately. Instead of waiting for the response of an e-mail, IM allows individuals to carry on an actual conversation—albeit a typed one—for free. Instead of wasting a great deal of your hard earned cash on long distance phone bills, consider turning to instant messaging so that you can still stay in touch without having to empty your wallet.

IM On the Go

Mobile phones have jumped on the instant messaging band wagon, as many cell phones now are equipped with IM capability. Many of the newest cell phones, including the much-praised SideKick, feature a full keyboard so that you can send instant messages without far quicker and much easier than the old fashioned alphanumeric system still present on the majority of mobile phones. Keep in mind that the IM service that runs through the mobile phone signals is not free, and in many instances, can be quite pricey. For this reason, be sure to check out all available options and programs before you sign your name to one specific cell phone contract.

Stay in Touch All Over the World

IM has made it a great deal easier to stay in touch with family and friends regardless of their location in the world. Whether you are down the street or on the other side of the globe, IM allows you to communicate quickly and easily with anyone under virtually any circumstances. The idea of the pen pal is much more intimate with IM, as you no longer have to wait days or weeks to hear back from a friend, family member, or complete stranger. However, this immediate access has opened the internet up to a host of other problems. One such problem is in the form of internet predators, which often use IM programs to meet and potentially harm individuals. Since the majority of individuals targeted are children. For this reason, it is imperative that parents strive to communicate with their children and know exactly who is on the other side of the instant messaging screen.

IM Companies and Programs

America Online (AOL) was the original pioneer of instant messaging. However, many more companies and internet providers have begun to offer services that rival that of AOL. Regardless, AOL instant messaging (AIM) is still the most popular type of IM service currently available on the World Wide Web. Furthermore, the majority of instant messaging programs available through the mobile phone lines is AIM, so it certainly benefits to have an AIM screen name. Today, other service providers offer instant messaging programs, including Yahoo and MSN. In order to control a variety of usernames and programs, companies like Trillion have produced an instant messaging platform that allows individuals to only use one program instead of multiple ones.