*AOL 9.6* is an *all-in-one web browser, search engine, and instant messaging
client* for America Online users. If you've ever wished you could just
package all your favorite web browsing features into one program, you're in
luck. That's exactly what AOL 9.6 does. As a company, America Online has been
churning out similar types of programs for well over a decade now, and they
still appear to be going strong. With this new version of one of their most
popular programs, users get an updated look, as well as a more integrated web
browsing experience. Probably one of the nicest features is the ability to
search for specific topics online from the comfort of your desktop. AOL 9.6
comes with a gadget, where you can type in your search queries. Of course, in
order to actually see the results, you have to have a browser available to
bring up AOL's search engine. That's where this program starts to shine. AOL
9.6 offers you a browser feature, along with its competent search engine to
find just what you're looking for. Included as well is the popular messaging
program, AOL Instant Messenger. Also known as AIM, this is arguably one of
the longest running and most popular instant messaging programs on the
internet to this day. The latest version of AIM comes installed on the
program and is nicely integrated into the browser conveniently off to one
side. It won't usually get in the way of your internet surfing expeditions,
but it's there in case you want to chat with friends just the same.
Unfortunately, there's nothing overly innovative about AOL 9.6. Everything
here has been seen before, and some might argue that newer browsers with
social media integration do it even better. With Facebook chat built into
browsers like RockMelt and Flock, it sometimes seems as though programs like
AIM are largely becoming unnecessary. In addition, AOL 9.6 has a tendency of
crashing or freezing up if you're running even a few additional programs at
the same time. *AOL 9.6 certainly isn't breaking any new ground, but for
loyal America Online users it's a nice upgrade.*Download *AOL 9.6* in
Softonic
