BlackBerry declared that BBM (BlackBerry Messenger) would go cross-platform and be available on both iPhone and Android smartphones sometime this summer. A slight sign of progress has occurred as select members of the BlackBerry Beta Zone have received emails informing them of their eligibility to download BBM for Android and iOS – so we know testing is happening and a release is imminent.
During their quarterly conference call Thorsten Heins, BlackBerry CEO, stated that BBM for Android will be available “before the end of the summer,” with rumours pointing towards September. BBM for Android requires OS 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich or higher and BBM for the iPhone is compatible for those running iOS6 or higher. The app will operate in the same fashion as BBM on BlackBerry devices, however it’ll be limited to messaging and groups at launch.
One step closer to “BBM for All.”
Update: Screenshots of BBM for Android have now surfaced online. As expected, the popular messaging service is designed in the same fashion as the BB10 BBM, specifically with the familiar icons showing who’s available and if your message has been delivered/read. In addition, BBM for Android will be limited at launch to only invite contacts, message, or form a group chat.
