Canada's Research in Motion (RIM) says its popular Blackberry handheld device will soon support the Google Talk instant messaging service and Google Local mapping application.
RIM says both the Google Talk and Google Local services willl be available free of charge to users of the Blackberry wireless service.
Google Talk for BlackBerry, a version of the desktop instant messaging application specifically designed for BlackBerry handsets, will allow users to send and receive instant text messages with other Google Talk members. The service will also allow integration of Google Talk instant messages in the BlackBerry e-mail inbox.
RIM says Google Talk will be available for download onto a Blackberry device this spring.
However a software download of Google Local for mobile, which enables Blackberry users to view maps and satellite imagery, is immediately available. The service provides provides draggable maps, directions and imagery and will store any addresses typed in or used.
Mark Guibert, VP, corporate marketing, RIM, says the Google services "will offer additional flexibility to BlackBerry customers in terms of how, when and where they stay in touch".
"As mobile technology continues to converge, consumers are becoming increasingly more connected and require access to information at home, at work, and on the road," adds Deep Nishar, director, product management, Google.