JohnBlackberry Messenger, commonly known as the BBM, is an internet based instant messaging application which was launched by Research In Motion Limited. Initially, it was only confined to Blackberry users of the blackberry devices. Recently in 2013, this application was introduced to both iOS and Android users.
The basic operation of this application is based on the Blackberry pin system that each user is given. The other way to connect is through the QR Code where the users don’t have to use the numeric pin. These systems allow the users to choose their contact by giving them the control instead of automatically adding them through phone numbers or email addresses.
A lot of Android users had shifted from the blackberry devices to the other devices such as Samsung or HTC. The habit of BBM had left them helpless as they did not have the option to download this app on their new phones. Blackberry had a wonderful start but soon it became clear that this was a ship waiting to sink. Therefore, they played a smart move and introduced their much-loved BBM application for the Android users.
BBM’s first release on Android devices was scheduled on 21st of September but a few glitches in the way led it to be postponed for the future. Nonetheless, more than one million Android users downloaded the fake version of this awaited app. Eventually the original version was put out for public use after all the problems had been resolved. It is now being used worldwide.
However, this application could not be directly downloaded. A few steps had to be undertaken.
1. Visit the website- www.BBM.com
2. Once the app is installed the users will be asked to enter their email id and wait.
3. And once the company reverts to the users request, they can start using the app.
The basic features this app is explained further:
1. Instant messaging.
2. Change display pictures and status.
3. Share files like pictures, music, contacts, voice notes etc.
4. Offers chatting with more than just one person at a time and invite people in the conversation and option for leaving the conversation,
5. Confirmation on message being sent, delivered and read, each indicated by different signs.
6. Option for group chatting and creating different groups.
7. A varied range of emoticons.
8. One of its latest features is of making free calls and video calls with Wi-Fi support.
Android users have the option of enjoying the additional and latest features of the Blackberry Messenger that has been set out for them. These features are apart from the ones listed above.
The option of being able to share your pin on social media helps the user as they don’t have to individually inform all their friends of their existence on this app.
It allows connecting with other friends through ‘Tell your friends’ feature.
Concentrated on issues like higher battery consumption and other bug fixes.
Therefore, BBM on Android has proved to be beneficial for both Android as well as for Blackberry. Blackberry needed to make a stand in the market after they lost most of their market share to other upcoming mobile companies. They have done it wonderfully for themselves an in turn, for the masses as well.
Mckay Jonson
Aman