Farren Roper, head of products and markets at FNB Connect says, "The addition of SMS to the devices is important to the bank's strategy of allowing free communications between its customers. Customers are able to use the app as part of their BlackBerry Internet Subscription (BIS) and therefore do not pay for data charges."
"This means that similar to BBN messaging system, which enables users to send free messages between contacts, the bank now gives its customers a free messaging platform to other bank customers who have the app. Unlike device specific messaging platforms, the app also allows users to send SMS to any other handsets at a lower price than traditional mobile rates."
He adds that there are some innovations planned around messaging shortly, which will give clients even more convenience.
"We had a large number of BlackBerry users writing us and commenting on social media with queries about availability of the app on the new Bold 9900. Listening to what our customers are asking for is paramount to the development life cycle of the banking app."
FNB recently announced a Smartphones and tablet deal whereby a client can finance a Smartphone and Tablet over 24 months at 0% interest, part of which includes a BlackBerry 8520.
