Ichat
iChat is the Instant Messaging program which comes with Mac OSX. iChat is capable of text, audio and video chatting. People with AOL IM screen names may use iChat just as they would use the AOL client. .Mac accounts may also be used for chatting.
Boddy Lists - In iChat, you contacts show up in your Buddy List (pictured right). To begin a text-based conversation simply double click on a buddy's name and a window will open in which you can type messages. To add a buddy to you list click on the + at the bottom of page, you may then either select somebody from your address book, or click "New Person" to add a completely new entry.