RIM BlackBerry Messenger Coming to iOS, Android

Originally submitted by Tkf1

One of the flagship features of BlackBerry is the Messenger service (BBM for short). It’s a cross between text and instant messaging, and comes standard on all BlackBerrys, making it a ubiquitous, fast, and free messaging solution. Sources for BGR claim the RIM is planning to bring BBM to iOS and Android—which is either a brilliant or suicidal move. Many BlackBerry users depend on BBM as their primary means of communication, and there is nothing quite like it on any other platform. Kik Messenger made a valiant effort to create a cross-platform BBM-like service, but RIM blocked the app from the App World.

Giving users an additional incentive to leave is a risky move. In a world with iOS and Android, RIM software seems ancient. Many business continue to choose BlackBerry for its Enterprise support, but other than that, Messenger is one of the few “killer” features that BlackBerrys offer. Creating cross-platform BBM clients could give RIM an edge as far as messaging services go, but it will probably do little to boost BlackBerry sales—or retain current customers.

[BGR]

View the original article here

iPad Rumors: First Generation Supply Drying Up, Second Generation Coming in White?

Originally submitted by Jawcl

Here’s to new rumors, fresh out of the mill: apparently, iPad 1 supplies are drying up, and 9to5mac and iFixYourI are showing what appears to be the front for a white iPad.

Reports that Apple’s supply chain for the current generation iPad has been shrinking, causing shortages for many retailers. All models appear to be affected, and there is no ETA for a new delivery. Such a supply constraint could be considered a sure sign that a new iPad model will be announced, and released, soon.

MB292LL/A – iPad 16GB WiFi – Constrained – No ETA

MB293LL/A – iPad 32GB WiFi – Constrained – No ETA

MB294LL/A – iPad 64GB WiFi – Constrained – No ETA

MC349LL/A – iPad 16GB 3G – Constrained – No ETA

MC496LL/A – iPad 32GB 3G – Constrained – No ETA

MC497LL/A – iPad 64GB 3G – Constrained – No ETA

The next rumor shows some ‘photo evidence’ of a white iPad 2. Considering the trouble Apple has had getting a white version of the iPhone 4 to market, it’s interesting that a white version of the iPad will be out. Overall, the part is nearly identical to that of the current iPad, save for the camera hole and the color.

[9to5mac 1, 2]

View the original article here