- 1). Launch the AIM client and enter your username and password. Click "Sign In" to launch your buddy list.
- 2). Click "Options" and select "Settings" from the drop-down menu.
- 3). Click on the "Expressions" tab.
- 4). Select the check box that says "Display Emoticons As Text Instead of Images." Click "Save" to save your changes and exit the "Settings" menu.