Blackberry launching BBM Android, iPhone

May 15 – BlackBerry is preparing to launch its BlackBerry Messenger (BBM) service for non-BlackBerry devices. TheBBM app is to be offered as a download to run on rival platforms.

Blackberry said it would initially offer texts, photo messages and group sharing functions on devices running Google's Android and Apple's iOS operating systems from "the summer".

"It provides customers with a high level of control and privacy over who they add to their contact list and how they engage with them, as invites are two-way opt-in. iOS and Android users would be able to add their contacts through PIN, e-mail, SMS or QR code scan, regardless of platform. Android users would also be able to connect using a compatible NFC-capable device," BlackBerry said.

It added it planned to roll out screen sharing, voice and video calls – all without charge – later in the year. BBM and other chat applications effectively reduce the cost of messaging and because of the instant notifications, users are able to quickly detect when a friend is online as well as whether a message has been delivered and read.

Also on Tuesday, BlackBerry announced BBM Channels which will allow consumers to connect with brands and the company will add this functionality to the Android platform later in 2013.

There are currently 60 million active BBM users and the launch on Android and iOS is expected by June, as it is subject to approval by Google and Apple.