BlackBerry Messenger

BlackBerry Messenger

 

Stable release	7.0.22 / April 17, 2012; 13 months ago
Operating system	BlackBerry OS BlackBerry Tablet OS iOS Android
Available in	Multilingual
Type	Instant Messaging Client
Website	www.blackberry.com/bbm

BlackBerry Messenger (BBM) is a proprietary Internet-based instant messenger and videotelephony application included on BlackBerry devices that allows messaging (and videocalls for BlackBerry 10 smartphones) between BlackBerry users. It was developed by the manufacturer of the BlackBerry, BlackBerry (formerly Research In Motion (RIM)). Messages sent via BlackBerry Messenger are sent over the Internet and use the BlackBerry PIN system, so communication is only possible between BlackBerry devices.
The service communicates over the phone's Internet connection using the mobile phone network. A wireless LAN ("Wi-Fi") network connected to the Internet may also be used to send messages, most service providers allow sign-in to BlackBerry Messenger if you have a BlackBerry data plan.
Exchanging messages is possible to a single person or via dedicated discussion or chat groups, which allow multiple BlackBerry devices to communicate in a single session. In addition to offering text-based instant messages, BlackBerry Messenger also allows users to send pictures, voicenotes (audio recordings), files, location on a map and a wide selection of emoticons and the top spec devices can even make videocalls over the WiFi or mobile network.
With the release of BlackBerry Messenger 5.0, BlackBerry allows users to use a QR Code to add each other to their respective friends lists rather than using only numeric PIN identification or an email address associated with the user's BlackBerry. Recent BlackBerry devices can also exchange BBM contacts using Near Field Communication technology.
The release of BlackBerry Messenger 6.0 introduced additional traits. This update is focused on social communication mediums, including 'BBM Connected Apps', which allow the user to invite friends to share their favourite BlackBerry Applications.
With the release of BlackBerry Messenger 7.0 in December 2012, voice chat was introduced. The new feature is called BBM Voice Call.

Contents

BlackBerry Messenger 7.0.1

The new release of BlackBerry Messenger 7.0.1 on March 11, 2013 comes up with new features, including:

• A new selection of emotions is integrated
• Allows user to Free Call over WiFi
• Works on OS 6, 7.0, and 7.1

Version History

BlackBerry

Version	Released	Notes
7.0.1	March 11, 2013	Current version.
7.0.0	February 24, 2013	N/A
6.2.0	August 29, 2012	N/A
6.1.0	N/A	N/A
6.0.1	N/A	N/A
6.0.0	N/A	N/A
5.0.1	N/A	N/A
5.0.0	N/A	N/A

Android

Version	Released	Notes
N/A	Summer, 2013	Initial release for Android.

iOS

Version	Released	Notes
N/A	Summer, 2013	Initial release for iOS.

Reliability

BlackBerry Messenger is widely reputed for its uptime and reliability. However, from October 10 – 12, 2011, those using the service within North America, Europe, the Middle-East and Africa were widely affected by an outage at provider RIM's UK headquarters in Slough, Berkshire. BlackBerry Messenger was reported to be unavailable, seriously affecting the company's reputation.

Features

• Make video calls over Wi-Fi or the mobile network on the latest smartphones (BlackBerry 10).
• Send and receive messages with unlimited length.
• Choose a personal BBM display picture and status.
• Real-time confirmations when messages are delivered and read.
• Share photos, videos and more with multiple contacts at once.
• Add contacts by scanning QR Codes, using NFC technology or sharing PINs.
• Send music files.
• Create and join groups where you can share and discuss lists, photos etc.
• Share location.
• Free Call BBM contacts over Wi-Fi.

Upgraded BBM

The latest version includes:

• 16 New Emoticons.
• BlackBerry ID Integration – Simplifies OS and device upgrades.
• BBM Voice – Talk or text, the choice is yours

Trademark conflict with BBM Canada

In late December 2011, the broadcast ratings provider BBM Canada (which has maintained the BBM trademark in Canada since 1944) has asked Research in Motion to cease using the BBM initialisation to describe the BlackBerry Messenger service, or finance the cost for BBM Canada to change their branding in exchange for the use of the BBM initialisation, or face further legal action. The suit was dismissed in 2012 by Canadian federal courts as being without merit, and BlackBerry uses the terms "BBM" and "BlackBerry Messenger" equivalently and interchangeably, as seen in in the company's official website for the service.

Availibility on other mobile operating systems

BlackBerry CEO Thorsten Heins announced on May 14, 2013 that BlackBerry Messenger will be available on iOS and Android in the Summer of 2013. This will mark the first steps of Blackberry Messenger reaching beyond its own platform, as it has never been available on competing hardware before.
It was rumoured that BlackBerry Messenger would launch on June 27, 2013 for Android and iOS. This was later denied by BlackBerry and a actual release date is yet to be announced.