Currently, it cannot. However, in June when the free iPhone software 2.0 update will be available along with the AppStore (this update will cost a "nominal fee" for the iPod Touch), AIM should be available. However, I do not know how much AOL will charge for this application, hell, it might even be free. But if you watch the March 6 Event for the iPhone (apple.com) you can see that AOL managed to accomplish a decent version of AIM for the iPhone in just two weeks.
Everyone said the same thing about the second luggage in airlines being free. They now charge. Yet again, those are two VERY different things. But hey, its never late to start charging... my $0.02
AIM charged about $20 for their old PocketPC version of AIM. I sincerely hope they don't do this with the iPhone.
No. Also, I was unaware about AOL charging for AIM on the Pocket PC. However, I stand by my statement that there is about a 0% chance they'll charge for AIM on the iPhone. If I'm wrong, well that sucks.
as has been said previously. The Apple EULA for apps calls for no background 3rd party processes running on the iPhone. This would pretty much make AIM and GoogleTalk useless. It remains to be seen if Apple will make an exception .