Samsung is preparing to launch a cross-platform text messaging and chat service that will be available for iOS, Android and BlackBerry devices. The company is set to debut the service at the electronics trade show IFA in Berlin.
In a press release and accompanying video, Samsung today said ChatOn will be available in both smartphone and feature phone versions. The service is a blend between a social networking service and straight texting client, allowing users to chat in groups, while a Web client will allow the easy sharing of content and conversations between mobile and PC.
“With ChatOn, Samsung has vastly simplified mobile communication by allowing users to connect to our upcoming feature phones and all major smartphones in the market,” said Ho Soo Lee, head of media solution center at Samsung Electronics, in a statement.
ChatOn will be available in more than 120 countries supporting up to 62 languages and will feature two functionality options. A basic functionality option is available for feature phone users who prefer simple and easy usage, allowing users to share text, pictures, calendar, contacts and emotions through a client.
Smartphone users will be privy to advanced features, allowing users to post comments on buddies’ profile pages. Users can also create an “Animation message” that allows them to create their own content by scribbling texts, adding audio and choosing their background pictures. All photos and videos in each conversation window can be viewed in an automatically-generated content sharing “Trunk.”
The company said the service will be made available “gradually across all major smartphones, tablets, notebook PCs and Samsung feature phones, including forthcoming devices showcased at IFA 2011.
Check the video below for a look at the new service: