2025 will mark the end of the longest dial-up service provided by AOL.
original co-founder Steven Case said “Thanks for the memories RIP”. AOL merged with Time Warner in 2000. The deal was widely deemed disastrous. AOL boasted about 30 million subscribers at the end of 2001. It was famous for luring customers by mailing them free trial CD discs.
AOL dial-up provided millions the entrance path to the internet. The quenching sound from a modem allowed users to read and send emails. They chat online, join user groups, and view the outside world.
AOL dial-up was launched more than 30 years ago. It was known for its chirpy whirring start-up sound. However, it has long since been replaced by faster alternatives.
Fewer than 300,000 people in the US reported having only a dial-up internet connection. In contrast, more than 300 million people have broadband service. These statistics are according to 2023 government estimates.
“You have mail” was a wake up call to millions. It will be best remembered for helping users gain entrance to the internet.
