“Virtual BlackBerry” Software for Smartphones to be introduced by Research in Motion (RIM)

Research in Motion is all set to launch new software that will enable users to turn Windows Mobile-based smartphones in virtual BlackBerries. This software will make smartphones such as the Palm Treo, which has incidentally been made by rivals, work like a BlackBerry.

This software, which is slated to be released in the fall season, has been designed to extend BlackBerry’s dominance by offering an option to individuals who may not want to switch devices to get the service, as well as to companies that would like to give employees a wider selection of handhelds without being forced to support multiple mobile email platforms.

The software will appear as an icon on the screen of a smartphone and will have the same interface as a BlackBerry. Users will be able to toggle between the Windows Mobile and BlackBerry interfaces.

This soon-to-be released application replaces the Windows layout and icons on the display with the look of the BlackBerry interface, customized to the specific buttons and screen size of that device.

Thus, a non-BlackBerry device would then be able to connect with BlackBerry servers for email, calendar, address book and other applications written for the platform.

According to RIM, co-Chief Executive Jim Balsillie, “We’re working very closely with AT&T, as an example. There will be other carriers that are highly supportive of this.”

As of now, RIM also ready offers a BlackBerry Connect email application that can run on devices with other platforms, such as Windows, Symbian and the Palm-based variation of the Treo from Palm.