Google pulls Gmail app off BlackBerry smartphones

In a move, which will strengthen its rivalry with the manufacturers of popular BlackBerry smartphones (Research in Motion), Google has decided to discontinue offering Gmail app support on BlackBerry, Times of India reports. Beginning from the 22nd of November, 2011, BlackBerry users will not be able to access the Gmail app. The report, however, also confirms that while users will not be able to download the app after the above mentioned date, those already having the app will be able to use it just like they always did. Alternatively, by using their smartphone's web browser,  or syncing their Google account with the BlackBerry service, users will be able to access Gmail.  

App no more for BlackBerry 

In response, the article quotes Google as saying that they wish to concentrate on the mobile browser experience, and hence decided to stall the development of the app for BlackBerry. RIM also stated that the BlackBerry smartphones allow users to sync their mail accounts to their BlackBerry smartphones, hence a dedicated app is not a neccessity. 

Either ways, this spells trouble for the future of BlackBerry smartphones, who we learn are going through a rough patch, as reportedly they're witnessing their users shifting their loyalties to a fast-growing Android or the iPhone.