Presence icons and Instant Messaging on AOL Mail

In various places on the AOL Mail service, you may see a small icon next to a person's screen name. This is the Presence icon and allows you to quickly and easily start an Instant Message (IM) conversation with them.

Note: If you do not have the AIM software installed, you will be prompted to install the AIM software or to choose to use the AIM Express service. If you choose to use the AIM Express service, you will receive this prompt every time you click the Presence icon.

FAQs

How to Use Presence Icons When Signed Into the AIM Service

To use presence icons when signed into the AIM service:

1. Click the Presence icon. An IM window will appear with the person's screen name already entered.
2. In the Instant Message window, type your message, then click the Send button to start the conversation.

How to Use Presence Icons When Not Signed Into the AIM Service

To use presence icons when not signed into the AIM service:

1. Click the Presence icon.
2. In the Sign In window, type your screen name and password in the appropriate box, then click theSign In button.
3. In the Instant Message window, type your message, then click the Send button to start the conversation.

How to Use Presence Icons Without Having the AIM Software Installed

To use presence icons without having the AIM software installed:

1. Click the Presence icon.
2. On the AIM Express window, enter your screen name and password, then click the Sign In button.
3. In the Instant Message window, type your message, then click the Send button to start the conversation.