[chiyc]

You hit on something that I really relate to. It used to be that I could say, "I'll see you online later." But that doesn't mean much now.

Instant messaging was engaging. It meant that I was sitting there, actively logged onto AIM with my status set as available. Now, with present-day alternatives on mobile, that level of presence seems like it's missing.

Others are always available but not. I could receive a reply on Messenger immediately or in a few hours. It definitely goes the other way, too. I may reply immediately or not. People are always available for conversation but conversations seem harder to have.