Mobile Instant Messaging FAQs

1. Does it cost anything to download the Mobile Instant Messaging application?

   The Verizon Wireless Mobile Instant Messaging App is no longer available for download, but it remains available for use by existing customers on select basic phones.
   

   Back to top
2. Is there a subscription charge for Mobile Instant Messaging?

   No. Instant Messages sent and received, User requests to refresh the Contact List, and Service Requests (Add Contact, Block Contact, etc.) are billed as TXT messages according to your pricing plan or TXT bundle. Verizon Wireless highly recommends TXT bundles or price plans with unlimited text messaging for Mobile IM users.

   Back to top
3. How do I know when I'm sending a Text Message?

   Whenever you trigger an action that sends a message, the handset will display the message "Sending" or "Sending Request."

   Back to top
4. Will Mobile Instant Messages count against my Text messaging bundle?

   Yes. Instant Messages are charged just like Text Messages, so you can use your Text bundle or pay as you go. Instant Messages are not included as Mobile to Mobile messages in any Unlimited Messaging bundle.

   Back to top
5. How do I get an Instant Messenger (IM) account?

   Visit MSN® or Yahoo!® websites to sign up for your free IM account with one of these service providers. Support for AOL® has been discontinued effective December 30, 2012.
   

   Back to top
6. What phones support Mobile IM?

   The Verizon Wireless Mobile IM app will no longer be supported for Smartphones effective 8/1/2012. Existing Mobile IM users on basic phones will still be able to use the service, however, it will not be available for download or use on any basic phone purchased after January 2012. See our Mobile IM Summary page for more information.
   

   Back to top
7. How do I switch between Mobile IM Services?

   To switch between IM Services, you must first close one service before you can sign in to another service. However, you can be logged into multiple services simultaneously. Simply choose "Sign Off" > "Switch Service" from the left soft key, and you will be returned to the IM Service Selection Screen.

   Back to top
8. Why am I still receiving IM messages after I have exited Mobile IM?

   When you exit the application or close the handset you will still be signed on. You must send the "Sign Off" command to sign off.

   Back to top
9. How do I check which version of Mobile IM I am currently using?

   To check which version of Mobile IM you are currently using, do one of the following:

   • When logged into one of the service providers, choose "Help" from the left soft key menu, and then choose "About."

   Or

   • From the Sign In screen for each service provider, choose "About" from the left soft key menu.
   Back to top
10. Why can't I get past the Terms of Use when I initially launch the Mobile IM application?

    To get past the Terms of Use when you initially launch the Mobile IM application, you must Accept the Terms of Use. After you have read the Terms of Use, scroll to the bottom and move the focus on the menu bar to the "Accept" option.

    Back to top