What Is Instant Message (IM)?
Hi there. We want to talk to you about Instant Message (IM). Instant messaging is a real-time, text-based communication that allows you to connect with others over the internet. You'll be able to see when someone sends you a message, and they'll be able to know when you respond. It's like having a conversation in person—the only difference is that the exchange happens over the internet instead of in person! Instant messaging is often used for quick communication between friends or groups via discussion boards. It may be used for informal communication, short coordination, or rapid exchange of information between businesses. Most of these communication methods offer some group chat function, allowing for contact with many people simultaneously. These programs are often used for gaming, especially LAN parties, where coordination and quick communication between players is essential. Some companies, such as Slack, also use instant messaging software for internal communication. Although included in the online chat category of technologies, IM differs in that the communicating parties are selected from an available list, called a "buddy list," "friend list," or "contact list." Users are typically alerted when someone on their list is online. However, online chat allows communication in a multiuser environment among usually anonymous users. When the recipient logs into their account and opens their email, a message will await them. The message may be sent from their computer system or may have been copied from another user's account. Once it is opened, the message will usually be stored on the recipient's computer, just like email. However, a few IM systems may keep the news active shortly after it has been read to allow an immediate response. Most IM systems offer a variety of options for delivery. Some permit messages to be sent only when the recipient is online, while others provide the option of sending a letter to the recipient's email address. Sometimes, the message may be sent to the recipient's email address and opened when they log into their account. We are not sure if that's true. We mean, we guess it could be. Sometimes, when people are offline, they say, "No".