AOL delivers AOL 9.0 Optimized

AOL is ready to deliver AOL 9.0 Optimized, touting it as its “most compelling upgrade” ever, beginning with broadband users who can get the software starting Friday.

The AOL 9.0 Optimized client software offers enhancements in spam filters and parental control as well as new features such as a blogging tool and shared family calendaring, among a host of other updates, AOL said in a statement Thursday.

The company had shared AOL 9.0 Optimized product details before, but had not discussed its rollout plans.

AOL for Broadband members will be offered the software on Friday, while other AOL members will be able to order a CD or download the upgrade in the coming weeks, AOL said. A marketing campaign with CDs in stores and other outlets will kick off later this year, the company said.

An AOL subscription costs $23.90 a month for dialup customers and $14.95 a month for customers who have a broadband Internet subscription through another Internet service provider, an AOL spokeswoman said. AOL reported 25.3 million members in the U.S. as of June 30.