Do you use Kik messaging? If so, you’re one of 2.25 million people and growing. Mind you, Kik has only been available for about three weeks. So seeing that many people adopt it is pretty astounding.
But before we get ahead of ourselves, we should probably inform the uninformed. Kik is a cross-platform messaging app that allows Android, iPhone, and BlackBerry users to quickly chat back and forth by all sharing the same app. Besides being a cross-platform service, Kik itself is a fast, simple app — two great things for a chat app. Unfortunately, BlackBerry users are now shut out — RIM removed Kik from App World today…
Kik cites an email from RIM that tells them they did in fact remove Kik and that no new downloads would be allowed at this time. Oddily enough however, RIM has said that they “cant elaborate” at this time as to why Kik was removed. Furthermore, Kik has said RIM isn’t responding to additional inquiries into the matter. Venture Beat went through and analyzed a few theoretical reasons why Kik could be removed — things such as excessive battery drain, security, etc. — but struck each one of the list as being a moot issue.
Of course, the last rational explanation has to do with the typical big guy/little guy story — RIM for some reason doesn’t like Kik’s raging success competing with their own BlackBerry Messenger platform. Though that doesn’t really hold water either seeing as how BlackBerry Messenger is free. Stay tuned, we’ll let you know what’s going on as soon as we find out.
Update:
RIM’s official statement:
“RIM became aware of a number of issues and customer concerns regarding the Kik app and service and, following discussions with Kik, the app was removed from BlackBerry App World. RIM is actively reviewing the issues and potential resolutions, and is also continuing its discussions with Kik.”
Perhaps RIM isn’t so jealous after all. Though it’s worth pointing out that Kik said that RIM wasn’t returning emails or talking to them. RIM says they are. Who’s telling the truth? Who knows…
Source: VentureBeat
Via: MobileBurn
