In a move that some may evaluate as a definite widening of consumer focus, Ontario-based developer Research In Motion has this week announced a deal with Microsoft Corp. that will see the incorporation of Windows Live services onto BlackBerry smartphones.
RIM and Microsoft announce deal to bring Windows Live to BlackBerry handsets. Image: Microsoft.
The introduction of Windows Live will enable BlackBerry users to enjoy on-the-go access to popular communication services such as chat application Windows Live Messenger and also mobile e-mail through Windows Live Hotmail.
The arrival of Microsoft’s Windows Live services will also allow users of RIM’s hit smartphone to benefit from BlackBerry platform architecture, which grants the ability to communicate in real-time by using push technology.
According to RIM’s Mark Guibert (VP of Corporate Marketing), the new relationship with Redmond-based Microsoft allows RIM to build on its strategy of providing BlackBerry customers with a wide range of communication options alongside the best possible mobile experience.
Windows Live Hotmail features making their way to BlackBerry smartphones include: Push technology for automatic message delivery and message synchronisation; a dedicated Windows Live Hotmail inbox that can also be integrated within a single ‘all e-mail accounts’ inbox; and HTML e-mail including in-mail graphics, Web links and contact photos.
Similarly, Windows Live Messenger features will include: Instant messaging and group chat; customisable status setting and presence monitoring; conversation saving; avatar display; access to more than 60 emoticons; and the ability to send and receive pictures and files.
“Over 430 million people around the world rely on Windows Live to stay in touch,” said Brian Arbogast, Vice President of Mobile Services at Microsoft Corp. “Our collaboration with RIM will enable BlackBerry smartphone customers to take full advantage of Windows Live, whether at work or on the go.”
Expect multi-language Windows Live services to initially appear some time this summer on BlackBerry 7000 and 8000 series devices and the recently unveiled BlackBerry Bold. New smartphones will ship complete with Windows Live, while existing models will be open for a download upgrade.
This latest mobile expansion of Microsoft’s Windows Live services follows a similar 2007 deal with phone giant Nokia, which saw Windows Live brought to Nokia series 60 handsets.
View blog reactions
There are currently no comments for this article. Be the first to comment! (no registration required)
Advertising
There are currently no comments for this article. Be the first to comment! (no registration required)