BBM for Android, iOS on pause mode

More than 1.1 mn active users in the first 8 hours, Blackberry says, 'wait for the official version'

The much awaited launch of BlackBerry Messenger for Android and iOS users was halted by the Canadian company after 'overwhelming' response. It has disabled the use of the Android app, while those who have already downloaded it, can continue to use it. 

 

“Prior to launching BBM for Android, an unreleased version of the BBM for Android app was posted online. The interest and enthusiasm we have seen already – more than 1.1 million active users in the first 8 hours without even launching the official Android app -- is incredible.  Consequently, this unreleased version caused issues, which we attempted to address throughout the day,” BlackBerry said, in a statement today. 

 

Allowing the new application for users of other platforms, would democratise the app which was until now, exclusive only for the users of the BlackBerry handset. BBM has more than 60 million monthly active customers. BBM customers collectively send and receive more than 10 billion messages each day.

 

BlackBerry claims that it is working around the clock to fix these issues. “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. These issues have not impacted BBM service for BlackBerry,” the company said. 

 

This new app will pitch it against other mobile data-based messaging services like WhatsApp, Viber and Line. “Customers who downloaded it (BBM app) should visit the website to register for updates on official BBM for Android availability,” the company said. 

 

Last week, BBM was made available to be downloaded for free for users of Android smartphones on two versions-Ice Cream Sandwich and Jelly Bean. Similarly, BBM was also available for iPhones running iOS 6 and iOS 7 versions.