In a dramatic change, that will benefit subscribers, America Online (AOL) has added a new feature that will allow AOL mail to be accessed from e-mail programs like Microsoft Outlook, Outlook Express, Eudora, and Entourage. Any IMAP-compliant e-mail client can also be used.
This change will have members rejoicing as AOL’s proprietary e-mail system has long been a weak link in its otherwise strong service. In recent months, AOL instituted this change for members in the U.K., Germany, France, and Japan. Now the service is also available to American AOL subscribers.
Called Open Mail Access, the new feature is available at no extra charge. Open Mail Access will allow AOL members to still use the AOL spam folder and the same controls that they may have already set in AOL for spam control.
This new feature will be especially useful to AOL members who use Outlook or Outlook Express at work. Members who want the flexibility that is offered from third-party e-mail programs will also benefit.
As part of their new services, AOL is also offering an online bill payment tool and an AOL toolbar for Microsoft’s Internet Explorer browser. The toolbar will give AOL members easy access to AOL Search, MapQuest, Moviefone, CityGuide, and other AOL services.
