Research In Motion, the manufacturer of Blackberry smartphones, has launched a new software application to allow Blackberry users to browse the face book social networking web site easier from their phone. The new application allows Blackberry users to receive face book notifications and send and receive messages much easier.

The software builds on Blackberryís already robust e-mail program, so users can read and compose messages within the face book software whether they are online or off.

T-Mobile USA will be the first US carrier to provide the new software to its wireless customers. Research In Motion is expanding its software applications for the Blackberry to include more social networking and lifestyle programs, as well as new games and multimedia offerings.

Analysts see the new move toward social oriented applications as an attempt to attract consumers outside of Blackberry’s traditional business user market. Besides the new face book software, Blackberry users can expect to see a variety of new programs being offered over the next year, including many online collaborative game programs, and possible extended support for other social networking sites such as YouTube and Myspace.

But will hard-core business users of the Blackberry be put off by Research In Motion’s attempt to make their flagship smartphone more “fun?” After all, the one area where the Blackberry excelled was in business connectivity. Expanding the Blackberry to a more lifestyle-based consumer market could potentially detract from its appeal as a business tool.

Whether the Blackberry can effectively become “all things to everyone” remains to be seen, but it is clear that Research In Motion is attempting to appeal to a new demographic, while presumably, keeping the business users they have. Only time will tell if they can pull off this balancing act.

Source:  bbgeeks