The jousting, analysts said, is as much about bragging rights as dollars, because little revenue is generated directly from instant messaging. Just as Microsoft wants to maintain its dominance of the operating software that runs most computers, AOL would like to control the messaging market. AOL feels its turf has been stepped on. Gossip tools Instant messaging initially caught on as a gossip tool at home and at the office, but has become a popular way to send comments more quickly and with even less formality than e-mail. Still, because the notes have to be short, the business applications of instant messaging are limited.
Messages appear in a box on a user's screen.
Mass. Industry standard Analysts also said the fight could have a positive result if it speeds the way toward an industry standard. They noted that e-mail in its early days also was restricted. AOL has said it favors the development of industry standards but plans to block competitors until they are set. An AOL official said Monday a letter has been sent to Microsoft asking to discuss the issue. AOL officials also say they're alarmed that MSN's Messenger Service asks AOL users to enter their user name and password before they can connect, raising privacy questions.