AIM for iPhone review

AOL has finally released their official AIM app for the iPhone or iPod touch. The mobile version of AIM on the iPhone supports many of the desktop instant messaging features and adds a slew of new features that are only available to iPhone users. The AIM app means you can now send IMs and SMS text messages from an iPod touch.

By default, if you exit AIM and return to the home screen, AIM will maintain your session for approximately five minutes. If you return to AIM within that time, you will receive messages that were sent to you during that time. If you do not return within five minutes, you will be signed off from the AIM service and will not receive any messages sent during your absence.

If you have updated to the new 3.0 OS firmware or have an iPhone 3G S, AIM supports push notifications. This means you can close the AIM app and it will still keep you logged. You can choose to do this either through Push notifications or you can choose to get SMS text messages when you get a new instant message. With the AIM app and push notifications enabled, you can now use the AIM app to send instant messages and avoid using up your valuable SMS text messages on your iPhone.

If you prefer, you can also choose to Sign-off on Exit in the settings, and AIM will sign out of the AIM network when you exit the application.

On the AOL iPhone app you can not only see your buddy list and send and receive instant messages, you can also:
– Take pictures with the built-in camera to use as your Buddy Icon
– Manage your Buddy List and see who is available
– Pick your Favorites for quick access
– Add new a buddy any time and your changes are automatically synced with iChat

The AIM app supports AIM, .mac or MobileMe accounts, and lets you register for a free screen name right from your iPhone or iPod touch. iPod touch only works with WiFi. iPhone users can use AIM on WiFi, Edge or 3G networks. There is as always a free version of AIM which is ad supported and as a result not as smooth as the paid version.

Note: If you are looking for a good multi-protocol IM app for your iPhone that supports Yahoo, MSN and more try BeeJive IM with Push 3.0, IM+ 3.0, Nimbuzz, or browse the iPhone chat apps category.

Here is a video demo of the AIM app on the iPhone

AppSafari review of AIM for iPhone was written by Joe Seifi on June 23rd, 2009 and categorized under App Store, Chat, Utilities. Page viewed 8831 times, 1 so far today. Need help on using these apps? Please read the Help Page.