Qik has just released the alpha release client of their video streaming app for use with BlackBerry mobile devices. Among the many BlackBerry phones, the Pearl 8120, 8130, Bold, Curve, Pearl Flip 8220, and Curve 8320 (GSM) and 8330 are confirmed to be compatible with this newly released software.
This new BlackBerry edition, however, differs from the previously released versions of the Qik app for other mobile phones. Here are some notable differences you should now about this RIM-flavored version:
- When you start Qik, a screen is shown with just one button - Stream. Press the center button to start streaming. This will bring up the camera application and you'll be off streaming live to the web. When you are ready to stop, just press the center button again.
- Depending on the network condition, after you press stop, you may see a progress % on the top right hand corner indicating the video that is left to be sent. It is advised to wait for the stream to be completely uploaded prior to streaming again.
- In this version, the chat does not show up overlayed on the camera.
- For best performance, use BlackBerry OS 4.5 and above.
- Your BlackBerry should have a SD card and video capture should be set to the directory: SDCard/Blackberry/Videos.
- The video capturing mode should not be set to the MMS mode.
Just remember that this is still an alpha release so you might expect some bugs and issues along the way. Signing up first is still mandatory, but it still won't cost you a single penny because it's free. If you're already a member, just go to qil.com/dl/165 on your BlackBerry phone to download it straight to your device.
We've seen a bunch of Nokia and Sony Ericsson phones getting Qik support just recently so I guess it's safe to assume that with this latest release, Qik is definitely making itself available to the entire mobile phone using community.
