So it’s definately an interesting turn for AOL to take with their IM client. But will the business world “byte” so to speak? I am inclinded to say no.

June 15, 2006 (IDG News Service) — AOL LLC has begun publicly testing AIM Pro Professional Edition (PE), a version of its AIM instant messaging service for workplace users, the Dulles, Va., Internet service provider announced Wednesday.

AIM Pro PE, designed for individual professionals, departments and small and medium-sized businesses, is expected to launch in final form late in this year’s third quarter.

Developed in conjunction with WebEx Communications Inc., AIM Pro PE can be downloaded and tested for free. However, it will carry a subscription fee after the beta period ends.

AIM Pro PE features tighter security than the consumer version and an ad-free interface and it lets users conduct voice and video conferences and Web meetings. It is also integrated with Microsoft Corp.’s Outlook.

Next week, AOL plans to launch a separate beta test for the Enterprise Instant Messaging (EIM) edition of AIM Pro, which is designed for use in large corporations and includes IT management and administration features. AIM Pro EIM was also co-developed with WebEx.

AOL announced AIM Pro PE and AIM Pro EIM in February…. Source: ComputerWorld