Research In Motion and Microsoft recently read out that consumer e-mail and instant-messaging services from Microsoft would be available on BlackBerry mobile devices later this summer. The partnership will provide an "easy mobile access to Windows Live Messenger and an enhanced level of integration between Windows Live Hotmail and the BlackBerry platform."
More specifically, the agreement will result in BlackBerry smartphone customers gaining access to the mobile version of Windows Live Messenger and, using BlackBerry push technology, e-mails will be synced up in real time from a Windows Live Hotmail account. Furthermore, it will be possible to use both Windows Live services by signing into a Window Live account just once.
Windows Live Hotmail for BlackBerry will give customers the option to use a dedicated inbox for Windows Live Hotmail messages, or to keep all e-mails within a single inbox on their BlackBerry smartphone. HTML e-mail will be supported, along with graphics, links and contact photos. The instant messaging will allow group chats, an avatar picture, emoticons, chat logging and it will also offer the send / receive files feature.
"The BlackBerry platform is respected around the world for providing optimized messaging capabilities and RIM continues to look for ways to provide customers with a wide range of communications options and the best possible mobile experience," said RIM's vice president of corporate marketing, Mark Guibert. "Our relationship with Microsoft and the addition of Windows Live services to BlackBerry smartphones helps us build on that strategy for our customers."
Products in the BlackBerry 7000 and 8000 lines, as well as the new BlackBerry Bold will be the first to get the Windows Live services, which include both Windows Live Hotmail and Windows Live Messenger. New phones will be shipped with the services, and users will be able to download them onto existing phones. Unfortunately, users won’t be able to enjoy Windows Live services without their carrier’s permission.
This is the third major distribution deal Microsoft has done for Hotmail and Messenger. Of course, it started by offering them on Windows Mobile phones, and then last year added a deal with Nokia to offer Hotmail and Messenger on Nokia Series 60 devices. Microsoft is now working on getting those services onto Nokia Series 40 devices as well.