With more than 73 million Android devices in use in the United States, this platform account for 52 percent of the mobile market. So it makes sense for BlackBerry to expand its once-popular messenger service to Android this month. Read on to discover all you need to know about BlackBerry Messenger for Android.
You Can Chat with Friends on Any Platform
Image via Flickr by Tsahi Levent-Levi
BlackBerry chief executive officer Thorsten Heins said “I cannot wait for the day when all of our BlackBerry fans can send BBM invites to all their friends on other platforms. They have asked us for this for years.” With the launch of BlackBerry Messenger for Android, and its sister instant message client Blackberry Messenger for iPhone, that day is here.
BlackBerry Messenger for Android allows you to engage in real-time, text-based conversations with friends using Android, iPhone, and Blackberry smartphones. The Blackberry BBM for Android service shows you that your message has been delivered and read. It also indicates that a friend is responding to the message you’ve sent.
The chat service goes beyond simple text-based dialogue though. It also allows you to share files stored on the Android phone, such as photographs or voice notes. This richer chatting experience will help you really connect.
You’ll Stay Connected with Your Group
BlackBerry Messenger for Android isn’t just ideal for one-on-one conversation though. The multi-person chat function allows you to shoot the breeze with up to 30 of your nearest and dearest. These collaborative chats are perfect for arranging social functions or brainstorming with your colleagues outside the office. In multi-chat mode you can also share the photos, files, and calendar details you’ve stored on your Android smartphone.
Your News Will Be Broadcast Easily
BlackBerry Messenger for Android makes it easy for you to spread the word. The Broadcast Message feature allows you to send a message to all your BBM contacts at the same time. This feature is perfect for sharing important moments, such as telling your loved ones about your birthday plans or announcing you’ve just become a parent.
The Updates function is another great way to keep your BBM pals in the loop. It allows you to post a personal message, your current status, or a new profile picture. Make the changes and BBM for Android will inform your contacts on your behalf.
You’ll Maintain Your Privacy with BlackBerry Messenger PIN
BlackBerry knows 20 percent of smartphone users are concerned about privacy above all else when using mobile applications. More than three-quarters won’t download an app they don’t trust. BlackBerry’s addressed these fears with its unique PIN system. Every BBM user is allocated an individual PIN. Sharing this PIN with people, particularly new or casual contacts, is far less invasive than sharing a phone number of email address.
You Can Use BlackBerry Messenger for Android for Free
The no-risk aspect of Blackberry Messenger for Android may be one of its greatest selling points. BBM for Android will be available as a free download on Google Play and via the Android App Store. As Android users don’t need to pay to enjoy the messenger service, they’ll be more likely to see whether it suits their communication needs.
By offering its messenger service to many more mobile users along with a host of features, BlackBerry may achieve its dream of breathing new life into its Blackberry Messenger service.