One of the few things that Research In Motion has done well in recent years is it implementation of BlackBerry Messenger. RIM specifically has excelled at BBM’s ability to send data and software, such as apps, to create a truly mobile app-sharing ecosystem. Rival messenger system, Kik, has announced a new API that will create much the same dynamic for its million’s of users.
The new Kik API allows users to share content and apps through Kik Messenger. When the receiving user gets the message, they are either prompted to download the app or if they already have the app, will be directed straight to the content that is being shared.
The Kik API will be easy for developers to implement. They choose the most shareable content in their apps and add five lines of code to tap into the API. Developers can sign up for the Kik API here.
Kik Messenger for Android will be the first to have get the new sharing feature. Kik Messenger for iOS is coming soon, according to the company. Kik is also available on BlackBerry, Windows Phone and Symbian.
There are five apps in the initial launch:
- Zwonks: a social game revolving around virtual goods and chat.
- FlyScreen: Android app that brings content to a locked screen of a device.
- Smiler: iPhone app to send greeting cards and emoticons.
- DrinkOwl: Find cheap drinks in your city.
- FileKicker: send any file over a messenger platform.
Kik sets itself apart from other apps like Facebook Messenger, Google Talk and iMessages with this new sharing ability. Kik was launched in 2010 by students at the University of Waterloo and its proximity to RIM gives it a lot of similarities to BBM. Kik was once one of the darling apps in the BlackBerry App World but RIM must be rethinking its support of the platform now that it is starting to steal some of its thunder.
Developers: you planning to Kik? What do you think about the ability to send apps over messenger services?
