AOL has multiple strategic partners. AOL MovieFone is the world's leading destination for moviegoers to find out what are playing, check theaters and show times, and purchase tickets. AOL software is preinstalled on PCs from many manufacturers and is available through many additional venues. AOL is the default Internet server for Gateway computers. The early 1999 near-collapse of the company's system under the demand crush that flat rate pricing generated.
Busy signals irritate users.
Large marketing expenses. Shotgun mailing of introductory packages lead to a higher percentage of short-term members who soon cancelled their accounts. AOL has failed to duplicate its success in the US market overseas. Rapid advances in Internet technology may surpass AOL's ability to keep pace. Market for home computers is growing.