Blackberry to support Google instant messaging

Stuart Corner
Monday, 16 January 2006 03:48

Business IT - Technology

Blackberry developer, Research In Motion (RIM), is to support Google Talk instant messaging and the Google Local for mobile map and information service on its BlackBerry wireless handsets. Both applications will be available as free downloads.

Google Talk for BlackBerry, a version of the instant messaging application specifically designed for BlackBerry handsets, will allow users to exchange text messages with other members of the Google Talk community. Full functionality of the desktop version will be available: users will be able to add, delete and rename contacts, see when their friends are online and available, leave conversations and resume them later, copy conversation text into memory and be notified when a message is being typed.

The service is integrated with BlackBerry Email and BlackBerry Calendar. It is expected to be available in the second quarter.

Google Local for mobile enables BlackBerry users to view maps and satellite imagery, find local businesses and get driving directions on their BlackBerry handsets. It is available from http://www.google.cm/glm, but presently offers coverage only of the USA. Google says it is "working to increase its availability as soon as possible".