AOL Anywhere

General tips

Save frequently-used commands as messages that can be reused. To reduce typing, save these messages and use them each time you send the command.

If your phone doesn't allow you to send blank messages, type a space or character in the message body.

Delete messages after you read them. This will save room for the messages you want to save and make it easier to find them.

Getting help. To get help for any AIM command, type ? in a new text message, and send the message to the phone book entry for that command.

Save your Sign On command message [screenname (space) password] in your phone's messaging outbox so you don't have to type it every time you log on.

Save your screen names and AIM command names and their associated Instant Message (IM) numbers in your phone book so you don't have to remember them. To send a message, write the message and select Send. Then, send the message to the phone book entry for the screen name.

If your wireless carrier offers an over-the-air programming service, the Phone Book Setup process will automatically add these entries to your phone book.

Adding buddies. Forward a message from an unlisted screen name to the phone book entry for the AIM-Add command to add the friend to your Buddy List feature and to get an IM number to add to your phone book.

Declining messages. You can decline to receive messages from any AIM user by forwarding the user's message to the phone book entry for the AIM-Decline command.

An easy way to reply to messages. One of the best and easiest ways to enjoy the AOL Instant Messenger service is to reply to messages sent to you (using your phone's Reply function). This way, you don't have to dig up the IM numbers or commands from your phone. You simply write and reply.

Use templates for faster messaging. If your phone supports them, set up frequently-used phrases or templates. This can make it faster and easier to talk from your phone.

Get notified when friends sign on. Set up buddy alerts on your phone using the AIM-Alerts command. This way, you can be notified on your phone anytime someone signs on to the service.

Save messages for future reference. Most phones and smart cards allow you to save a fixed number of messages in the phone or smart card's memory. By saving a brief history of messages received, you can reply to these or forward them at a later date. This can make items like sending directions or previous comments to someone else easy.