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Recently, I upgraded my AOL software to the latest version, 9.0 Optimized. I am always excited to find out what new and improved features AOL has included in their new editions. From the moment that I upgraded, I began discovering some very cool additions. The improvements range from better security settings, to mail options, to just plain fun stuff, like ways to personalize your desktop.

The security settings have been improved by offering a Virus scan, through AOL, that scans every email that comes to your mailbox to make sure that you don't inadvertently infect your system by opening a harmful file. You can also cut down on this risk by using the Spam control options.

This brings us right into the new email features. A brand new filing system is available, which automatically weeds out Spam from your inbox, filtering it into its own seperate folder, to be read or disposed of at your convenience. Another great new feature is the Mobile Phone options. You can set AOL to notify you through your cell phone when you get an email, when you are getting an Instant Message, or when you have set a Reminder to remind you of an event, such as a birthday or a meeting.

The coolest new feature, by far, is the Expressions. These are ways to make your AOL experience more uniquely yours. AOL 9.0 has added tons of new wallpapers and sounds to decorate your desktop. I have chosen the Tiger Stripes for my wallpaper, but there are many to pick from, including a Forest scene, and some abstract art. You can choose different wallpaper for the background of your IMs as well, so that the Buddy you are IMing can share in your personality.

The Buddy Icons have gotten souped up too. Try out the new SuperBuddy Icons, that have animation options. There are hundreds of key words, that when typed into your IM window, and sent to your Buddy, activate the animation for your SuperBuddy. I have chosen a Saber Toothed Tiger for my SuperBuddy. He growls, laughs, smiles, winks, spins around, and much more. He's lots of fun to watch, and realy cute!

The sounds are improved too, giving you fun options for your session. You can choose to have your favorite celebrity welcome you to AOL. Instead of the AOL Voice telling me, "Welcome," I have Hugh Grant saying, "You look lovely today." Where Mr. AOL used to tell me that, "You've got mail," Mr. Grant now says, "You have letters." And, instead of an impersonal, "Good-bye," I now hear, "Au revoir." This is just a little extra something that makes 9.0 special.

AOL 9.0m Optimized contains many more new and improved features that you too can check out. Just go online and upgrade, or request a CD in the mail. You may even be able to find the CDs at your local post office.