12 Instant Messaging Features We Wish Still Existed
Here's a reflection on instant messaging features that disappeared but are still missed today.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 3 min read
Instant messaging once had features that made conversations feel more personal and interactive. Many of these tools are no longer available in modern apps. Users continue to remember them as part of what made early online communication special.
1. Custom Status Messages
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Instant messaging platforms allowed users to set short custom status lines. These messages showed moods, activities, or quick updates. Friends could see them without starting a conversation. It was a simple feature that encouraged personal expression.
2. Nudge or Buzz Button
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The nudge or buzz made the chat window shake to get attention. It was often used when someone was not responding. While basic, it added energy to conversations. It also served as a direct way to remind someone you were waiting.
3. Offline Messaging
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Older messaging apps delivered messages once the recipient logged back in. This ensured that no message was lost if someone was not online. It supported continuous conversations without both people needing to be present. Today, not all platforms manage this in the same way.
4. Personal Chat Themes
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Users could customize chat windows with chosen backgrounds and color schemes. This made chats feel unique for every person. Themes reflected personality and gave control over design. Modern apps usually offer limited or no visual customization.
5. Visible Typing Indicator
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Typing indicators showed when someone was preparing a response. It reduced uncertainty during pauses in conversation. The feature created a sense of real-time communication. Without it, some apps feel less interactive.
6. File Sharing with Progress Display
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Instant messengers supported direct file transfers with visible progress bars. Users could see how long a transfer would take and confirm when it finished. This made file sharing part of the chat experience. Current platforms often move this into background functions, losing visibility.
7. Emoticon Packs
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Before modern emojis, users downloaded and used emoticon packs. These offered expressive icons that varied in style. They made chats more personal and customizable. The variety allowed people to represent emotions in creative ways.
8. Buddy List Organization
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Contact lists could be organized into folders such as family, school, or work. This kept large lists structured and easy to navigate. It helped people prioritize conversations. Modern platforms rarely provide this level of organization.
9. Away Messages
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Away messages allowed users to leave short notes when unavailable. These often included updates or information for friends. They gave contacts a way to know why someone was not responding. It added context and reduced misunderstandings.
10. Profile Songs
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Some platforms allowed users to set a song that played when their profile was viewed. It added a layer of personalization. Music choices often showed personality or mood. This feature made profiles more engaging to visit.
11. Multi-User Chat Rooms
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Instant messaging supported public or private group chat rooms. These spaces allowed communities to form around shared interests. Friends and strangers could join and participate without invitations. They encouraged open, real-time discussions.
12. Screen Name Customization
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Users could change their screen names with unique fonts or symbols. This flexibility allowed frequent updates and creativity. Names often reflected trends or moods at the time. Modern apps usually lock usernames, reducing this form of expression.