Does IM count as text messaging?

[ravnjokr]

Hi everyone,
I am new to this site so I'm not sure if this thread has been posted before. If so, please redirect me to it.
I have my droid x for half a year now. I heard from someone in verizon that using apps like AIM count as text messaging. Since I don't have unlimited texting nor do I plan on getting on any time in the near future, I have never used AIM or any similar apps to this day.
However, I just saw on yahoo answer that AIM and QQ don't count as texting and don't go into my texting limit.
Is this true? I really want to chat with my friends anywhere without having to be charged extra.
Thanks in advance and happy new year.

 

[roflcopters]

I believe those programs use the data connection, therefore do not count as texting.

 

[cpjr]

No sir, they just use data, but don't count for texts.