Instant messaging, also known as IM, is an online communication method used to connect two or more people in real time for back-and-forth conversation.

Instant messaging software has long been known for its direct peer-to-peer connections, pioneered by the now-defunct AOL Instant Messenger (AIM).

AIM, and other similar IM programs, initially allowed two ‘contacts’ to directly send and receive text-based messages, provided both users were online, logged on with the client, and had access to each other’s unique screen names.[2]

Figure 1. The instant messaging in world

Figure 1 shows instant messaging (IM), form of text-based communication in which two persons participate in a single conversation over their computers or mobile devices within an Internet-based chatroom. IM differs from “Chat,” in which the user participates in a more public real-time conversation within a chatroom where everyone on the channel sees everything being said by all other users.[1]

Different Types of Instant Messaging

The instant messaging (IM) is now immensely popular and is available to the internet users since a long time. Recently different types of instant messaging have emerged with new features and benefits. In addition to this, the ezTalks Cloud Meeting also offers 24-hours email, phone support, and Livechat. The following are the most popular types of instant messaging.

1. Email Messengers

This is one of the most popular instant messaging services that are available today. Most of the email messaging platforms offers instant messaging features with other features as well such as IMVironments, custom-status messages, and address-book integrationEmail Messengers also offers file sharing and voicemail features to its users. One can even share files of sizes as big as two GB. These messengers also offer the users to create different plug-ins and listen to paid & free radio services. The email messengers are still trusted as one of the best instant messaging services in the world.

2. Social Media Messenger

The social media messenger is another immensely popular instant messaging service provider that helps people reach other people very easily. Social media messenger such as Facebook Messenger offers many latest and interesting features such as live-messaging tools and bot, which helps its users in creating one custom experience. Users can use the social media Messenger to interact with other people without having to download the app.

3. Instant Video Messaging App

Although the instant video messaging apps are popular as a video calling platform, it also has some excellent instant messaging features. For instance, Skype has been there for a very long time, helping people to connect. The instant messaging features of the Skype lets one to share, receive, and send messages to friends and colleagues, or to a group of people. Now, one can also send videos and audio files as well. The instant video messaging apps also offers the option of audio calling as well. This feature has made reaching local businesses to expand their reach further.

4. Freeware and Cross-Platform Instant Messaging for Smartphone

This is actually one communication platform, which is fast gaining popularity. The freeware and cross-platform instant messaging for smartphones such as WhatsApp and Google Hangouts includes VoIP, SMS, video chat, and instant messaging. This allows conversations and interactions between multiple users. This service can also be accessed through the mobile apps that are available for iOS and Android. The chat history can be saved online and that helps them in syncing between multiple devices. One can also share photos or pictures during conversations. One can also use emojis and symbols in the messages.[3]

References:

1. https://www.britannica.com/topic/instant-messaging
2. https://www.brosix.com/blog/what-is-instant-messaging/
3. https://eztalks.com/unified-communications/different-types-of-instant-messaging.html

Cite this article:

Thanusri swetha J (2021), Instant messaging, AnaTechmaz, pp. 22