America On Line has released a new beta version of their instant messaging application, AOL Instant Messenger. AIM 4.2.1193 (yes, that is really the version number) add a number of new features, including the ability to have your buddy list saved on the AIM servers, providing users acces to their list regardless of location. This update is for Mac OS 9.x, and there is no news from AOL regarding a version for OS X. According to AOL:
Now weire making the AOL Instant Messenger (SM) Buddy List (R) even easier and more convenient! So you can always tell when friends and family are online, AOL Instant Messenger now lets you access your complete and combined Buddy List from any computer you use -- whether itis at home, work, school or even on the road. By giving you easy anytime, anywhere access to your combined Buddy Lists from the AOL service, AOL Instant Messenger, AIM Express, and other AOL Instant Messenger Products, AOL helps you stay in touch no matter where you are. Best of all, with just a single Buddy List to keep track of, you can access, update and make additions from any computer at any time.
You can now disable the flashing application icon that AIM generates when you receive an Instant Message. If you no longer wish to be notified of new IMs by this method while AIM is in focus, you can go to the "IM" preference panel and deselect the "Blink application icon when IM received" preference.
AIMis new Buddy Comment lets you store one line of text for each of your buddies -- itis a great way to save useful information. Just hover your mouse over a buddy and the Buddy Comment appears in your buddyis Hint. To create a Buddy Comment, highlight a buddy in your Buddy List, select the "People" menu and choose "Buddy Comment..." Itis that simple!
AIM is available as a free download. You can find more information at the AOL web site.