The AOL instant messenger, first chat app in the history since 1997 to get shut down on December 15th.
The chat app initially developed on desktop as standalone app. But always surfaced on top against the competitors like yahoo, ICQ, Microsoft MSN. As it values $224 billion today in money to just $4.4 billion when sold to Verizon in 2015.
A former AOL employee told that estimated AIM usage decreased to single-digit millions of users. Now AIM’s official MacOS, Windows, iOS and Android apps removed for support
All personal data associated with AOL instant messenger deleted after December 15, 2017. But users can save chat logs. AIM also started cutting off third-party access earlier this year.
AOL instant messenger Users can use their @aim.com email address to send and receive email
The services of AOL instant messenger, including Internet Relay chat (IRC), AOL arrived at a time when the internet was rapidly spreading into more homes. As dial-up 56k modems gave way to D.S.L. and cable connections, Considered as dominant service of the time.
AIM will always have a special place in our hearts,” AOL wrote to users in an email. People can download images they sent until December 15th, but the app’s download links will start disappearing now. Unfortunately there’s no way to save or port your buddy list.
“We know there are so many loyal fans who have used AOL instant messenger for decades; and we loved working and building the first chat app of its kind since 1997,” AOL wrote on the AOL instant messenger help page. “Our focus will always be on providing the kind of innovative experiences consumers want.
We’re more excited than ever to focus on building the next generation of iconic brands and life-changing products.”
