The evolution of instant messaging has significantly shaped today's communication landscape, with early platforms like AIM and Skype setting the stage for modern mobile-first messaging.
Early Pioneers in Messaging
AOL Instant Messenger (AIM), launched in 1997 and retired in 2017, was a trailblazer in real-time PC messaging. Known for its 'away' messages and direct file transfers, AIM laid the groundwork for features we now take for granted.
Yahoo! Messenger, which debuted in 1998 and concluded in 2012, expanded the IM experience with text, photo, and file exchanges, as well as webcam calling and customizable interfaces.
Microsoft's Influence
MSN Messenger, later rebranded as Windows Live Messenger, launched in 1999 and was retired in 2014. It introduced features like video chat and animated 'winks' before Microsoft transitioned users to Skype and eventually Teams.
Skype, launched in 2003 and set to retire in 2025, became synonymous with voice and video calls, offering paid services to landlines and mobiles. Its acquisition by Microsoft marked a shift towards integrating these services into Teams.
Mobile Messaging Revolution
BlackBerry Messenger (BBM), introduced in 2005 and retired in 2019, was a pioneer in mobile messaging, known for its speed, large character limits, and early adoption of read receipts.
Google Talk, launched in 2005 and retired in 2015, offered seamless integration with Gmail and Android, paving the way for successors like Hangouts, Chat, and Meet.
