MACWORLD 2009 : AOL has announced today that there will be two new iPhone and iPod touch applications – one for its SHOUTcast radio directory and another one for its instant messaging service ICQ; along an update to its AIM instant messenger application.

The new SHOUTcast Radio application will allow users to have access to “more than 26,000 professional and community programmed radio stations” from more than 30 genres – including news, music and talk. Also, it will take advantage of the accelerometer to allow users to change the station by shaking it.

The ICQ messenger app is described to “bring together all the core features of the popular instant messaging service”, and combine them that makes it easier to do so on the iPod touch and iPhone – including swiping a finger on the screen will allow you to switch between conversations; and an easy way to use the camera as an “ICQ Devil”.

The updated AIM will have new features, including SMS notifications when they receive a new message, even if AIM is not running. Also, it will take advantage of using the address book; allowing you to contact your friends directly right from AIM.

While the SHOUTcast application is available, ICQ and the updated AIM will come out soon. All apps are free.

AOL, a unit of Time Warner Incorporated, also unveiled an “AIM Buddy Finder” tool for cell phones with global-positioning capabilities. Users can let friends see their location on MapQuest, another AOL service. However, the traveler must periodically refresh the location and there is a necessary $3-a-month Where service available through Alltel and Sprint Nextel Corporation’s Sprint and Boost Mobile brands.

News source: MSNBC

As well, Microsoft plans to release a new controller with a QWERTY keyboard on it. Previously, you had to use the on screen keyboard or plug in a USB Keyboard.