Instant Messenger (o/t)

[scott8]

This may be somewhat surprising in this day and age, but I have never used any type of instant messenger.

However, as I have developed poker relationships it has become apparent that my game can only be helped by discussing key hands right after they happen.

So what do I need to do?

I don't have an AOL account, I do have a hotmail address.

I'm not sure if you can only talk to people on AIM (I know some lingo /images/graemlins/smile.gif) if you yourself are on AIM, or what.

Basically, I'm asking if I need to open an AOL account, if most people run both MSN and AIM or what.

Also, if there is anything else that I should have learned about this last decade.

Thanks in advance,

SC

[mosquito]

Anyone can sign up for AIM. It's a free download.

[playersare]

you don't need an AOL account to get an AIM username. same deal for MSN.

currently the networks are separate but they just announced they are in the early stages of merging, probably trying to head off google.