BlackBerry Messenger app for Android, iOS?

Rumour has it that Research In Motion is developing an Android and iPhone version of its instant messenger app.

BlackBerry Messenger is a proprietary instant messenger app that ships on all BlackBerry devices.

It was developed by BlackBerry maker Research In Motion and allows messages to be sent over the BlackBerry PIN system.

BGR says it’s heard from "multiple trusted sources” that Research In Motion is planning to bring the Messenger app and service to Android, and eventually iOS.

The report says that RIM has not yet finalised details such as timing or price, but there’s talk of RIM making the software free to all users.

Apparently a strategy is still being developed which may see RIM charging users a one-time fee.

RIM is said to be unhappy with third-party applications like WhatsApp and Kik that offer third-party experiences based on a concept RIM invented.