How It Works

Away Message

Messages disappear. Conversations aren't stored. Profiles stick around.


What is this?

Away Message is an instant messenger inspired by the golden age of the internet. Pick a screen name, sign on, and start chatting. No account needed. No data collected. Just vibes and nostalgia.

Features

  • Instant messaging — send IMs to anyone who's online
  • Chat rooms — hang out in public rooms or create your own
  • Away messages — let people know you're brb
  • Profiles — set up your bio, location, interests, and a quote
  • Buddy list — see who's online in real time

Privacy

Messages are ephemeral — they exist only while you're connected. Once you sign off, your conversations are gone. Profiles are the only thing that persists, and even those are just a screen name and a few fields.

Claiming Your Username

Screen names are first-come, first-served by default. But if you want to keep your name, you can claim it with your email address.

  • Claimed usernames require email verification
  • Your username stays yours as long as you're active
  • After 90 days of inactivity, claimed usernames become available again
  • You can always use a throwaway name without claiming

No password required. Claim your name with email, or keep it throwaway.