Researchers Studying Texting as a Separate Language
“Instant messaging, or IM, is not just bad grammar or a bunch of mistakes,” says Dr. Pamela Takayoshi, Kent State University associate professor of English. “IM is a separate language form from formal English and has a common set of language features and standards.”
http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2008-05/ksu-ima050108.php