What is an AIM icon?

The instant messaging phenomenon has introduced a great increase in internet related vocabulary. In fact the term "instant messaging" is more commonly referred to as "IMing" and simple white screens for conveying instant messages are not enough. Now we have to have custom "skin" for our instant messaging screens. AIM Expressions provides AIM users with multiple downloadable options for skins or backgrounds that allow them to express their own unique personality. Of course internet vocabulary is not the only thing that is changing.

Add to the instant messaging craze the fact that all wireless devices such as laptops, handheld devices and even cell phones have instant messaging capabilities. Not only has instant messaging become convenient and fun, but it is a vital means of communication for some. It is natural them that to those who put such high value in instant messaging, that there should be a way to personalize their experience even more. After all, how much more impersonal is a computer than a phone? So what AIM has done is created icons.

AIM icons are graphics chosen by the instant messaging user. This icon is located right next to the text sent by the user. The one receiving an instant message will also see the other person's icon while chatting. Having an icon adds a level of uniqueness and expression to instant messaging that makes the experience less technical and cold. You can choose an icon that you feel adequately represents you, your humor, your intelligence, etc. There are no rules as to what icon you must choose. You are free to constantly switch your icon id you wish.

Many people search various other sites not sponsored by AIM to find icons. Although this is not advised as a virus can easily be downloaded with an un-sponsored icon, it allows you with an even wider spectrum of cyberspace in which to find an icon that is truly unique. AIM responded to this desire to have an icon unlike any others when it introduced WeeMee. In WeeMee you go to AIM's website at www.aim.com and click on this option at the right of your screen. You can then choose to create your own icon by choosing specific facial features for your character as well as clothing, hair color, and accessories.

As the use of icons has gained popularity options of animated icons have bee introduced as well as icons that are actually scanned into the computer by the user. AIM notes that it is happy to receive recommendations by its users in order to provide as many popular icon types as possible. If you have a suggestion for an icon that you yourself would enjoy having as a downloadable or easy select item feel free to contact AIM with your suggestions.

It is easy to make user-created icons or to simply download previously created icons. You can choose from characters that you create, cartoons, celebrities, landscapes, animals, etc. The possibilities are endless. All that you do to get started id follow the step-by-step instructions located at the AIM website.
1. Log onto www.aim.com and create an AIM account if you have not already done so. You may browse through the different downloadable program options to choose an AIM version with the added bonuses that you are interested in.
2. On the Buddy List window, click on the "Edit" menu item. From the edit menu select the "Settings" menu from the drop-down items.
3. In the "Settings" preferences, select the "Expressions" tab.
4. In the Expressions preferences, click on the "Browse" link.
5. Select your icon with the "Select A Buddy Icon" tool.

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