Samsung has recently launched its new multi-platform instant messaging service known as ChatON on the App Store for iOS, allowing owners of Android, Bada (and soon other smartphones) to chat with their friends that own an iPhone, iPad or iPod touch and vice versa. This App Store port is similar to the Android and Bada-based versions and allows users to send pictures, videos, messages and all manner of communications to friends and family.

This cross-platform app was initially announced back at IFA in September, and launched in the Android Market and on Bada phones in the middle of October.

ChatOn is Samsung’s answer to Apple’s iMessage.

Like iMessage, ChatON works on its own network so it’s not restricted to cellular connectivity the way SMS is. You get chat, group chat, broadcast and whiteboard-type features. They’re also working on a web interface, so all the bases will be covered.

Eventually, ChatOn will also be available for BlackBerry OS and Windows Phone 7, allowing smart phone owners to chat with one another on-the-go for free, regardless of their mobile operating system.

Source – ChatON, iTune Store