RIM rivals Apple's iPad by adding PlayBook video chat app

RIM has announced an application designed to allow users of its new PlayBook tablet to carry out video calling over Wi-Fi, as the firm goes head-to-head with Apple and the iPad 2.

The Video Chat application contains features such as the ability to make one-click video calls to contacts, use both rear- and front-facing cameras during calls, and many similar features to standard voice calls such as call logs and call-screening.

The application is available from today and will be sent to existing PlayBook customers via an over-the-air update. It will also be available for download from the BlackBerry App World.

RIM will no doubt be hoping that the addition of the chat function can woo potential new customers who would otherwise have plumped for an iPad 2, while deflecting some of the criticism that the device received on launch.

Furthermore, among several updates from the firm's BlackBerry World 2011 event in Florida, RIM also announced that its Mobile Voice System 5 (MVS5) tool is now available for phone and unified communications systems from the likes of Avaya and Nortel.

This includes Avaya's Aura 6.1 CS1000 Communication Server and Communications Manager as well as Nortel Communication Server, and provides the ability to make voice calls over Wi-Fi networks.

The firm has also redesigned the tool to run third-party applications and phone systems that offer VoIP and SIP connections, so firms can take advantage of IP-based offerings on new or legacy communication systems.

Jim Tobin, senior vice president of software and services at RIM, said that improvements to MVS5 will allow businesses to ensure that communications systems are secure and cost-effective.

"Using the right communication medium at the right time, whether it's an email, an instant message or a phone call, is important to success in business," he said.

"We are pleased to extend BlackBerry MVS to more corporate phone system brands like Avaya and Nortel, and make BlackBerry MVS available to more businesses."

MVS5 is currently available from RIM and resellers in the US and Europe.