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Tuesday 1st March 2005

AOL advances its instant messaging into Microsoft Outlook 10:45AM, Tuesday 1st March 2005

AOL has begun taking steps towards integrating its AIM instant messaging software into the Windows desktop by releasing a beta version of a new tool that provides buddy information in Microsoft Outlook.

AIM Sync lets Outlook users add contacts to their AIM buddy list and matches email addresses to AOL screen names. This enables it to show the current availability of buddies, by placing the familiar AIM 'running man' icon in emails, the address book and phone lists.

The move will see AIM go head-to-head with Microsoft's MSN Messenger, which is already closely integrated with Outlook.

AOL has also announced partnerships with several websites that will see IM incorporated into the sites' services. Examples include a recruitment service, which will link screen names to CVs, a financial information service and a college entertainment network.

AIM's strategy is to spread itself as widely as possible, whereas Microsoft is focusing on business IM. It is expected to launch an enterprise MSN client for its Live Communications Server later this year.

AIM Sync beta is a free download from www.aim.com.

Simon Aughton

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