Shape Services just updated their IM+ Instant Messaging Software for BlackBerry devices. New features include a subscription based transcription of spoken messages (awesome), group chat in Skype and the ability to show (or not) your contact’s avatar. We’ve previously reviewed the iPhone version’s transcription feature as well as a version for Windows Mobile. Just like their iPhone version, the transcription service is a monthly fee ($1.99 on BlackBerry vs .99 on iPhone). The transcription works very quickly (less than 3 seconds in most cases) and is incredibly useful for anyone needing to keep two hands on the wheel. For BlackBerry users concerned about battery life (and aren’t we all) you can set IM+ for BlackBerry to run in a push mode which makes you appear online and sends an email notification if anyone attempts to message you.

IM+ for BlackBerry – $39 + voice transcription $1.99/mo (optional)