BlackBerry has confirmed BBM, the company’s messaging platform, will be available for free download on Android starting Saturday and iOS starting Sunday.
In the future, BlackBerry is expecting to add BBM Channels as well BBM Video and Voice calling to its cross-platform release.
The BBM for Android requires version 4.0 and up and BBM for iOS requires version 6.0 and up.
The move to kick out its solid messaging app as an OTT solution comes as BlackBerry is experiencing the possibility of more job cuts. Rumors of a possible BlackBerry sale persist even as the Canadian OEM yesterday introduced its new flagship smartphone, the relatively jumbo 5-inch Z30.
BBM features include notifications confirming when a message has been delivered and read, and it will also let you know when someone is responding. It will also allow some file sharing, such as images and voice recordings.
BBM Groups will allow group chats of up to 30 participants and Broadcast Message allows you to send a quick update to all your contacts simultaneously.
Cross-platform users new to BBM will need to set up a PIN number, which will ID you without the need to give out your phone number or email address.
Filed Under: Devices
