Blackberry has a key technology called BlackBerry Messenger (BBM) that can be used to instant message between Blackberrys. In recent news, BlackBerry has decided to release the BBM app for iPhone and android, making the buzz and demand for this technology explode. Within the first few days of its release, there was a wait list for consumers to receive their individual “pins” in order to begin using their newest app. However, despite the popularity of the app reaching 20 million users by iPhone and Android, the BBM app is entering a market with many competitors including the most popular, Whatsapp, used by 300 million users. As Whatsapp holds an advantage in being the first to the market, BBM may face a tough road ahead. But what does this mean for Blackberry? No doubt, this was a good move for the usage of BBM and its popularity among iPhone and Android users; however, formerly provided only for Blackberry users, BBM is no longer a distinguishable factor in buying or using a Blackberry. And now, Blackberry has hit an all time low of a 1.7% market share. With the release of one of Blackberry’s key assets to competitors, this distinguishing factor that Blackberry phones offered has been eradicated. This latest step begs the question of whether Blackberry smart phones will still be around in 2014?

BBM For Android And iOS: Not A Big Deal: http://seekingalpha.com/article/1798802-bbm-for-android-and-ios-not-a-big-deal?source=google_news

BBM app for Android and iPhone gets update: http://www.itpro.co.uk/mobile/19964/bbm-android-and-iphone-surpasses-20-million-downloads

Blackberry Messenger Resurrected for iOS, Android doodads: http://www.theregister.co.uk/2013/10/21/bbm_launch_for_ios_and_android_resumes/

Blackberry’s global market share falls to just 1.7%: http://www.bnn.ca/News/2013/11/12/BlackBerrys-global-market-share-falls-to-just-17.aspx