BBM Voice calls now possible on BlackBerry 5 OS phones

BBM 7 with BBM Voice was introduced last year as an enhanced version of BlackBerry Messenger that only worked for BlackBerry OS 6 or later. A new update to the app makes it possible for BlackBerry OS 5 users to place free Wi-Fi calls just as easily.

As a refresher for BlackBerry OS 5 users who may have missed the original announcement last November, BBM Voice is a feature of BBM that enables free Wi-Fi calls to other BlackBerry users. t's designed to be a fast way to quickly address issues in a phone call rather than trade messages. Calls can only be place over Wi-Fi to other BBM users, so it will not use monthly data allowances.

BBM Voice is integrated into the BBM app and doesn't require any additional sign-ups. Indicators show potential callers when someone is available for a voice call and when that recipient might be too busy to speak. Voice also supports Bluetooth headsets and split-screen multitasking to have a call and still be able to text or send pictures at the same time.

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