Samsung prepares ChatOn messaging service for launch
Samsung is preparing to launch a cross-platform instant messaging service called ChatOn, as shown in a YouTube video released by the company.
The video, uploaded on Friday, shows an instant messaging service that will work across Samsung's feature, Bada and Android handsets, with an "etc" suggesting other platforms will also get the service.
ChatOn will offer group instant messaging, with the ability to share files, location information and even calendar data. Users will be able to set up their own profile pages, and will be able to see who their top contacts are.
ChatOn appears similar to Apple's upcoming iMessage service, due in iOS 5, and RIM's BlackBerry Messenger (BBM). BBM is so far the only successful attempt by a phone vendor to create a viable messaging service, and is largely responsible for adoption of BlackBerry smartphones in the youth market.
Both BBM and iMessage are encrypted services, and there is as yet no indication as to whether Samsung's ChatOn will be similar in that regard.
According to reports, ChatOn will launch at the IFA technology show in Berlin later this week. The service will be released in 120 countries, in 62 languages.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EMPEm147BPo