There are two different types of AIM Icons used with AOL Instant Messenger, buddy icons, and AIM message icons.

A buddy icon is an icon that the user selects to associate with the screenname they use. Typically these icons are a picture of the user that the user likes, or an image of a hobby, character from media, or other interesting image. Buddy icons are 50 pixels by 50 pixels, and can have a color depth of up to 32-bits. AIM users can choose to display or block buddy icons on a user by user basis, in the case the an icon is offensive or otherwise annoying.

AIM message icons are graphics you can use in instant messages or chat sessions to convey emotion or illustrate a point with an appropriate image. Also referred to as emoticons, AIM message icons include the usual range of Smiley faced icons that are the standard for every instant messaging product available. In addition to the basic icons, AIM users can also select from a number of customized icons.

How do I use AIM Icons in my instant messages or chat sessions?

A series of keystrokes will signal the system to create and display a particular icon. For example, the use of (h5) will create a "High Five" set of hands that perform the high five maneuver. Simply make sure your cursor is placed at the point in your message that you want the icon to appear. Next, enter the proper keystrokes to create the icon. When your comments are displayed, they will include the icon image that you had in mind.

Where do I find a list of icons?

The basic icons will appear in a drag down menu for the AIM Chat software. You can click on the icon you want and insert it into your message. In addition to these icons, you can find thousands of other downloadable icons on sites dedicated to AIM. The following list includes some of the better sites: Iconator, Coolbuddy, and Picgames.

Do I have to buy the icons?

No. Most icons are in the public domain and do not require payment before you can use them in your messages. You are free to use them as often as you like; however, some of them may include the URL of the site associated with them. You may want to check periodically for new icons, as new ones tend to be created all the time.