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Facebook to drop BlackBerry OS app support by end of 2016
If you’re using a BlackBerry that’s running any version of BlackBerry OS — this means all devices up to but not including the PRIV — you’ll likely have to fling it through a window if you’re still interested in using WhatsApp or Facebook beyond this year.
The social media overlord has announced that it’s dropping native BlackBerry app support for Facebook and Facebook Messenger apps on the platform by the end of 2016.
Although BlackBerry 10 OS runs Android apps, the system is clunky, and involves a ridiculous sideloading process, which is more of a headache than a solution to the problem.
The general lack of apps on BlackBerry OS, in part, forced BlackBerry to move to Android entirely for 2016, with the PRIV the first device in the line running Google’s mobile OS.
Read more: WhatsApp will no longer support BlackBerry, Nokia S40, Windows 7.1, earlier Android versions
BlackBerry’s blog explains that the company tried to stop the rot, but ultimately failed:
“We are extremely disappointed in their decision as we know so many users love these apps. We fought back to work with WhatsApp and Facebook to change their minds, but at this time, their decision stands.”
But the company also reaffirms that BlackBerry 10 is not dead, and its “commitment to BlackBerry 10 and to developers has not changed.” But the real question remains: how many other companies will pull out the development rug from under BlackBerry 10?
If you’re a BlackBerry user, the company asks you to express your opinions on social media using the hashtag #ILoveBB10Apps.