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AOL instant messenger, or AIM as it’s commonly referred to, has become a giant in the world of instant messaging. Most users are familiar with the AIM software that can be used on any household computer. However, more and more people are switching off the computer and on to their iPhone and they’re bringing AIM with them. But what exactly are the advantages of IMing off of your iPhone. Well, the ability to carry on a conversation from anywhere, the freedom of not being tied down to a computer, and the ease of organizing multiple conversations at once are drawing countless users to check this app out.

For starters, AIM allows users to talk to their friends on AIM anywhere they have service. Say you’re walking around town and your friends stuck at home. Well now you can chat with them on your phone while they’re on the computer.

The problem that previous Instant Messenger apps all shared was the fact the app couldn’t be ran in the background while using another app. So, if you wanted to chat with a friend, you couldn’t be in another app while doing so. AIM hasn’t necessarily fixed this problem, but they have found a way around it. If you’re not currently logged in to the app and someone tries to message you, AIM will send you a text informing you. So then you can start the app up and talk.

The interface for this app is pretty easy to use. You can cycle through a few different menus that allow you to choose between online buddies, off line buddies, and current conversations. This app is great if you’re someone who carries on multiple conversations at once, because each conversation can be held on a different tab and cycled through. Set up for this app is easy, especially if you’re already signed up for an AOL screen name. It will also import all contacts already on your buddy list.

All in all this is a fun, useful app that IM users will love. Personally, it can’t replace texting for me, but if you talk to people who IM more than they text then you’ll get a lot of use from this app. For the small price of just $2.99 it’s worth checking out. But remember standard text messaging rates apply!

Verdict: 4.5/5 Stars