Washington, Jan 29 : BlackBerry is reportedly set to roll out its popular messaging service, BBM, on Android phones running Gingerbread OS.

BBM on Gingerbread Android phone would allow the sinking smartphone manufacturer to fully compete in developing countries where the messaging service is already an established brand but current smartphones are still running the older OS.

According to TechCrunch, Engadget study points that despite being generations old, Android 2.1. x Gingerbread still powers 21 percent of Android phones, most of which are located in emerging markets.

The smartphone manufacturer recently upgraded its BlackBerry 10 OS with a number of enhancements, including a new picture passcode feature, new lock screen, and FM radio in Q5, Q10 and Z30 handsets.

BlackBerry lost its smartphone market share owing to tough competition from rivals like Google , Apple and Samsung, and it recently extended its once-exclusive BBM service on third-party smartphones as part of its revival strategy. (ANI)