BlackBerry Radio hits beta stage

RIM gave an early look at a new media app of its own on Thursday to those in its BlackBerry Beta Zone. BlackBerry Radio combines both Internet only services like Slacker with traditional radio station sources such as Corus and Clear Channel's iheartradio in a single app. The service gives at least a sample even if it would normally require a subscription and gives the option of downloading the relevant app.

American users who want to keep permanent tracks have a shortcut to buy songs through the Amazon MP3 app. Not all of a given service's features will be available. Slacker won't have options to skip or favorite a track, according to RIM.

The beta is being pushed out later today and will come to the US first, but other countries and public access are promised for later. BlackBerry owners beyond the US would have to use alternative music stores and might not get the same integration.

By Electronista Staff