AOL today announced the launch of the AIM Phoneline service, a new offering that gives AIM users a free, local phone number to receive unlimited incoming calls online through the AIM service as well as free online voicemail. AIM users can get their free AIM Phoneline number by visiting www.aimphoneline.com and by downloading an updated version of the AIM Triton service now in beta testing.

With the AIM Phoneline service, AIM users - 18 years of age or older - can get a free, local phone number to use however they like. This number provides always-on voicemail delivered to the user's AIM Mail inbox, and when users are signed into the AIM service, they can screen incoming calls with Caller ID, answer calls and talk as long as they'd like. Users can also enable the service to send a mobile alert via cell phone to notify them whenever they have new voicemail.

"AIM Phoneline was designed to meet the evolving phone needs of U.S. consumers," said John McKinley, President, AOL Digital Services. "Our research shows that the need for a separate and confidential phone number is becoming as important to consumers as the need for multiple email addresses. AIM Phoneline is delivering the first free and easy way to get an additional local phone line that brings a new level of control and flexibility over how we communicate with different people. We're thrilled to bring even more value to our AIM users by providing a new voice service that perfectly complements their busy lives and builds on existing online and instant messaging behaviors."

Free AIM(r) Phoneline service features, include:

• A free, local phone number for each AIM Screen Name that follows users wherever they go;
• An "always-on answering service" that takes messages anytime - whether users are online or not - and sends easy-to-access and archive MP3 voicemail messages right to email;
• Integration with the AIM service and Buddy List feature, which connects the nation's largest and most popular instant messaging community;
• Unlimited inbound calling from friends on landlines, mobile phones and other PCs;
• Caller ID that lets users easily screen calls;
• Ability to receive mobile alerts on a cell phone to keep informed about new voicemail messages; and
• Ability to report unwanted calls through a service that will soon also incorporate an innovative "Do Not Answer Registry" to help other users manage potential telespam.

As a complement to its free benefits, AIM Phoneline also offers an easy upgrade for those who make lots of calls and want greater flexibility and outbound calling capacity, such as long distance families, long distance cell phone users, and small/home businesses.

AIM Phoneline Unlimited includes unlimited calling in the US, Canada, and more than 30 international destinations for one low fixed monthly fee. In addition to enhanced PC-based call management capabilities, it also offers industry-compliant, nomadic E911 support that will enable AIM Phoneline users to reach emergency services regardless of their location.

In addition to all features of the free service, AIM(r) Phoneline Unlimited features include:

• 30-day free trial with no risk and no fine print;
• Introductory, fixed monthly fee of $9.95 for select number of charter members for unlimited inbound and outbound calling in the U.S., Canada and specific destinations in more than 30 countries internationally (Low fixed monthly fee of $14.95 thereafter for all customers);
• Enhanced 911 service, including for nomadic users;
• Enhanced call management tools, including one-click call blocking and detailed online call logs;
• Complete caller ID with name, number, city and state, that lets users screen calls with the "answering machine-like" ability to interrupt a message and take the call or send directly to voicemail;
• Ability to place phone calls with a single click from contacts listed within the AIM Buddy List, AIM Address Book and in online call logs; and
• Ability to dial any number by typing into the AIM Buddy List's integrated "digital dialpad."

To get a free local phone number and more information about the advantages and benefits of AIM Phoneline, go to aimphoneline.com.