Research In Motion Ltd. is set to roll out new software that will let users turn smartphones running on Microsoft Corp."s Windows Mobile platform into virtual BlackBerries. RIM plans to offer the software for a number of devices running Windows Mobile 6.0. Once installed, it will provide users with access to BlackBerry applications like its e-mail, phone, calendar, address book, instant messages and other functions.
The Waterloo, Ontario-based company will make the software available on devices offered by a number of telecom companies later this year, likely in the fall. "We"re working very closely with AT&T, as an example," RIM co-Chief Executive Jim Balsillie said in an interview. "There"ll be other carriers that are highly supportive of this."