Verizon adds PTT service for BlackBerry handsets

Verizon has began offering a push-to-talk app and service for BlackBerry handset owners. As with other push-to-talk systems, users can contact team members or clients by pressing a single button, place group calls with up to 50 participants and check which team members are available thanks to a Presence feature. Verizon's system works over the regular cell network and not iDEN, as on Sprint.

Companies can manage contacts for their whole organizations online, with the capability to add, delete and assign contacts, as well as creating and editing groups. PTT calls can be made and received through a single device and associated phone number. Users can reach contacts nationwide.

The app is free and available to download through the Verizon application store, though it also requires activating a $5 per month service itself. Verizon does remind users that they need a PTT-enabled BlackBerry in order to access the service, and PTT will not work if they are roaming on Sprint or another CDMA carrier's service. [via CrackBerry]

By Electronista Staff