Apparently, an unreleased version of the BlackBerry Messenger was posted online on September 21 and was made available for Android users, specifically for Ice Cream Sandwich and Jelly Bean users. Due to some undisclosed “issues”, however, BlackBerry has decided to postpone the official rollout despite the fact that some 1.1 million users have already downloaded the app. The issues in the unreleased BBM version had BlackBerry addressing them the whole day, prompting the company to hit pause on the rollout and asked the users to wait for further updates. iPhone users who have already downloaded the app, however, can still use it. According to a statement issued by the company, “As soon as we are able, we will begin a staggered country roll-out of BBM for Android and continue the roll-out of BBM for iPhone”.
The question now is: Is it way too late for BBM to be available for Android users?
If you would consider the several other mobile social messaging apps available in Google Play, you can definitely say it is way too late for BBM to be in the Android world. Sure, the company has added 1.1 million more to its BBM user base, but the issues and the delay could result in further backlash. In fact, the availability of BBM to other platforms has come way too late. To delay this further can do more damage to the already struggling company.
So just what are the social messaging apps that have been famous among Android users even before BBM came into the picture? Here are a few of them:
Skype
When it comes to chat, voice call, or video call, many Android users turn to the free Skype app downloadable at Google Play. There are already 250 million Skype users worldwide, so it’s no wonder why many are still downloading it. Keeping in touch with loved ones even when they’re offline is still possible thanks to Skype’s low-cost call rates to mobile and landline numbers. And the great thing about Skype is that it’s available to multiple platforms such as iOS, Android, and even desktop computers.
Viber
With over 200 million users worldwide, Viber definitely belongs to the top of the class. Users can send text, photo, and video messages, make voice calls,, and more. Its latest update even allows users to create and send doodles to each other. The service is free when done over Wi-Fi or 3G. And just like Skype, it’s available across multiple platforms.
Tango
If you’re looking for an all-in-one social messaging app, this is one great choice. Tango lets you send text messages, make video and voice calls, and even play games with your chat-mates for free. This app currently has more than 130 million users and counting. It is available across multiple platforms (smartphones, PCs, and tablets) and doesn’t need you to remember any username or password.
