I am logged into several channels 24/7, in one (with a close group of friends) pretty much without a break since about 1999. I also frequent some channels with technical topics.
IRC appeals to me by its simplicicy, just like good old plain text email does. It is a great design that has outlived many of the better, more colourful or more modern alternatives, and will continue to do so.
Like everywhere on the internet there is a resident braggart, a few weirdos and a few ever silent lurkers in every channel, but after 20+ years on this medium my mental filters are well honed.
IRC appeals to me by its simplicicy, just like good old plain text email does. It is a great design that has outlived many of the better, more colourful or more modern alternatives, and will continue to do so.
Like everywhere on the internet there is a resident braggart, a few weirdos and a few ever silent lurkers in every channel, but after 20+ years on this medium my mental filters are well honed.