Thanks to netlooks for the heads up...
Monday, America Online launched it's next test client based on 'AOL 9.0 Optimized', to beta testers (currently in Alpha status, codenamed AOL Strauss). This new client, labeled 'AOL 9.0 LE', is targeted for users with less RAM and overall inadequate specs to the modern surfer. The most noticeable changes include no 'Welcome Screen', no AOL man greeting you with 'You've Got Mail' or 'Welcome', no AOL Companion, no AOL ads, no channels bar, and an icon free toolbar. That is a very long list, as AOL is sometimes known to add features, while yielding to remove the aspects labeled as nuisance' by subscribers.
AOL explained the future of Strauss [briefly] in its' beta central area, "Initially, Strauss' user experience is limited in some areas by design. The testing you do will provide baseline performance information that will be used to make development decisions for the future of Strauss. Also, the feedback you provide will be used to guide the overall evolution of the Strauss service. As the test progresses, more and more features will make their way into the Strauss experience."
Even to the most advanced user, this should come as a reason to end protest, detest, and discontent over the advancements made by AOL. And maybe, just maybe, respect them for changes long overdo, and the striving to accommodate users of all levels. But hey, its' just something to think about.
Just last week, AOL released its' last beta client, Tahiti (now labeled AOL 9.0 SE), boasting a more delux client with an array of added features targeting the high-speed user. The SE upgrade is now available through the AOL.COM download area.
News source: AOL
