BlackBerry CEO Thorsten Heins announced at BlackBerry Live that the company plans to bring its BlackBerry Messaging service to Apple’s iOS platform and Google’s Android platform.
BBM will be available as a free application on iOS and Android, the app will come with a number of features which will include BBM chats, multi-person chats, voice note sharing, and BlackBerry Groups.
Andrew Bocking, Executive Vice President, Software Product Management and Ecosystem, at BlackBerry had this to say:
“For BlackBerry, messaging and collaboration are inseparable from the mobile experience, and the time is definitely right for BBM to become a multi-platform mobile service. BBM has always been one of the most engaging services for BlackBerry customers, enabling them to easily connect while maintaining a valued level of personal privacy. We’re excited to offer iOS and Android users the possibility to join the BBM community.”
Features and Benefits of BBM on iOS and Android
BBM is a popular app on BlackBerry’s own platform with more than 60 million monthly active users and more than 51 million of those use the app on a daily basis. The app will launch on both platforms sometime this summer. The decision to expand BBM to iOS and Android is a strategic move by BlackBerry to broaden its user base and compete with other popular messaging apps like WhatsApp, Viber, and Facebook Messenger.
One of the standout features of BBM is its emphasis on privacy and security. Unlike many other messaging apps, BBM uses a unique PIN system to connect users, which means you don’t have to share your phone number or email address to chat with someone. This feature is particularly appealing to users who are concerned about their privacy.
In addition to standard one-on-one chats, BBM offers multi-person chats, allowing users to communicate with multiple friends or colleagues simultaneously. This feature is ideal for group projects, planning events, or simply staying connected with a group of friends. Voice note sharing is another useful feature, enabling users to send quick voice messages when typing isn’t convenient.
BlackBerry Groups is another significant feature that will be available on the iOS and Android versions of BBM. This feature allows users to create groups of up to 30 people, where they can share photos, lists, and calendar events. This makes it easier to coordinate activities and share information within a group.
Impact on the Messaging App Market
The introduction of BBM to iOS and Android is expected to have a considerable impact on the messaging app market. With its strong focus on privacy and unique features, BBM could attract users who are looking for a more secure alternative to other messaging apps. The move also signifies BlackBerry’s efforts to stay relevant in an increasingly competitive market.
For example, WhatsApp, one of the most popular messaging apps, has faced criticism over its privacy policies and data sharing practices. BBM’s PIN system and strong encryption could make it a more attractive option for users who prioritize security. Additionally, the ability to create and manage groups with shared content could make BBM a preferred choice for both personal and professional use.
Moreover, the expansion of BBM to other platforms could lead to increased user engagement and loyalty. By offering a consistent and reliable messaging experience across different devices, BlackBerry can ensure that users remain connected regardless of the platform they choose.
The decision to bring BBM to iOS and Android is a significant step for BlackBerry. It not only expands the app’s user base but also introduces a secure and feature-rich messaging option to a broader audience. As the app launches this summer, it will be interesting to see how it competes with other established messaging apps and how users respond to its unique features and privacy-focused approach.
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