Really off-topic, but is there a decent alternative to AOL IM service (not software)?

[Cruzscarwash]

Back in the day the only program I used is ICQ. I haven't used it on close to 15 years now but I see it is still alive. I know a lot of forums still have a place for your ICQ #

Icq wow haven't hear that in a long time

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[yakky]

Thanks, but those don't have standalone apps on the computer. I did look at google hangouts chrome app, but it works kind of weird. i really like how Pidgin (or the old AOL IM sofware) is a small, simple, piece of software that loads on our computers.

Hangouts works just fine with Pidgin. I use it everyday.

[newb001]

Have you tried whatsapp?

That's what I've ended up using. I actually like that it works on both the PC and phone.