WebSite Malaysia.Net

RESEARCH In Motion launched a new software platform that lets businesses manage smartphones made by rivals that have been devouring the BlackBerry maker's market share.

BlackBerry Mobile Fusion was launched as a "next-generation mobile device management solution" for companies faced with a growing trend of employees wanting to use their iPhones, iPads or competing Android gadgets for work.

"Organisations face pressure to allow employees to bring their own devices into the workplace," said RIM vice-president of enterprise product management Alan Panezic.

"For businesses and government, managing a mix of mobile devices on any scale is chaotic."

A strong selling point of the platform was that it promised IT managers they would be able to give Apple or Android mobile devices data control and security features that have made BlackBerry smartphones popular with companies.

BlackBerry Mobile Fusion software is available as a free download but RIM will charge companies fees based on numbers of devices being managed. - AFP/Relaxnews 2012