The AE II interface was menu-driven, providing a straightforward user experience with a limited set of functions when compared to the extensive capabilities of contemporary telecommunications software, lacking advanced features like terminal emulation and multi-file transfer protocols such as YMODEM or ZMODEM.
AE Pro was a command-line-driven telecommunications programme enriched with features that its predecessor lacked, such as scripting capabilities, YMODEM and ZMODEM protocols, terminal emulation, and support for the Apple ProDOS 8 operating system.
The subsequent year, Joe Holt and Greg Schaefer completely rewrote AE Pro for the Apple II, integrating the system's new mouse and MouseText capabilities.
However, ProTERM, a more sophisticated telecommunications software that leveraged the advanced capabilities of the Apple IIe and IIc, including 65C02 opcodes, mouse support, and macros, quickly eclipsed the prominence of AE Pro and MouseTalk.
However, with the advent of hacking software like Dalton's Disc Disintegrator (DDD), Apple II users began to explore the nascent capabilities of peer-to-peer file sharing.
Among nearly all BBS software, including GBBS and Networks II, ASCII Express Professional (AE Pro) stood out as the only telecom programme accessible through an undocumented feature.