RIM Brings Facebook for BlackBerry

Research In Motion just launched Facebook for BlackBerry Smartphones, a new software application specially created to provide quick, streamlined and optimized access to the in-vogue Facebook social networking website, directly from Blackberry devices. The first carrier to provide the new Facebook for BlackBerry to its customers is T-Mobile USA.

The new software will offer a unique mobile experience for Facebook users, enabling them to wirelessly view and send messages, images, Wall posts and pokes. The native application provides more than simple browsing features, as it can automatically deliver notifications to Blackberry users when friends or colleagues send messages, pokes or Wall posts. Also, users can take photos and upload it on Facebook with tags and captions, manage photo albums, invite friends, manage events or manage their status, all this while on the go.

"Facebook is one of the fastest growing web destinations among BlackBerry smartphone users and it has become an important element in the evolving fabric of personal communications," said Mike Lazaridis, President and Co-CEO at Research In Motion. "Facebook and RIM share a vision for enhanced mobile communications and social networking based on open, standards-based platforms and this has allowed us to produce a rich mobile application for Facebook users that leverages the push-based architecture, multimedia features and industry-leading usability of the BlackBerry solution."

"T-Mobile is focused on helping people effortlessly connect with those who matter most by providing our customers with meaningful ways to stick together," said Leslie Grandy, vice president, Product Development, T-Mobile USA. "We are pleased to be the first wireless carrier in the U.S. selected to offer this innovative service that gives customers another compelling way to stay in touch."

Facebook has reached, since its 2004 launch, an impressive number of users, currently having more than 40 million. Facebook for BlackBerry, available as a free download, will make it faster and easier for Facebook users to stay wirelessly connected with friends and colleagues.