iMessage is Apple's messenger to contend with BBM

Apple has unveiled its own messenger app to be available in the upcoming iOS 5 OS. The messenger app will go head-to-head with BlackBerry Messenger (BBM). If you haven't heard of WhatsApp Messenger, unlike BBM, WhatsApp is a cross-platform smartphone messenger available for major handsets. iMessage is not a cross platform IM client, just like BBM.

iMessage in iOS 5 brings the functionality of iPhone messaging to all of your iOS devices―iPhone, iPad and iPod touch. Built right into the Messages app, iMessage allows you to easily send text messages, photos, videos or contact information to a person or a group on other iOS 5 devices over Wi-Fi or 3G.

Apple iMessages are automatically pushed to all your iOS 5 devices, making it easy to maintain one conversation across your iPhone, iPad and iPod touch.

iMessage also features delivery and read receipts, typing indication and secure end-to-end encryption.