AIM (AOL Instant Messenger)

AIM (AOL Instant Messenger) was a popular online messaging platform launched in 1997 that allowed users to instantly communicate via text with friends and contacts in real-time. It functioned like a digital chat room, enabling instant, direct messaging on computers. Users could see who was online, share files, and join group chats. AIM helped popularize instant messaging as a mainstream way to stay connected. Although discontinued in 2017, it was a pioneer in online communication, influencing later messaging apps and social media platforms.