BlackBerry has launched BBM Enterprise SDK, enabling developers to integrate encrypted messaging, voice, and video capabilities into apps and other services. The SDK will be available to developers on a subscription basis, although there is no word on pricing yet. The SDK will feature advanced features like the ability to edit, delete and quote text messages, location services, custom status, encrypted file sharing etc., above the normal messaging, voice and video options. The SDK will work for iOS and Android, with support for other platforms coming soon. Essentially the platform will let developers integrate communications features into their apps without having to worry about the backend. As of now, BlackBerry mentions that it will focus on industries like healthcare, law enforcement, and financial services. Note that the company already offers the BlackBerry Development Platform for creating third-party enterprise applications, which it launched in December last year. This platform includes SDKs for the creator of mobile apps for business environments, workspace SDKs for collaboration, a 2-factor authentication system, analytics etc. Focus on software: Note that BlackBerry had pulled the plug on its ailing hardware business in September last year, and had said then that it would focus on its software business instead. Subsequently the company licensed out BlackBerry-branded smartphone manufacturing rights to Indonesia’s PT BB Merah Putih for Indonesia, Optiemus for India, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh and TCL for the rest of the world. With the launch of the Development Platform and the BBM Enterprise SDK, BlackBerry has pretty much…
