RBS to launch PlayBook app

RBS Global Banking and Markets clients will be able to access financial research and commentary using RIM's tablet

RBS Global Banking and Markets (RBS GBM) has announced it will enable clients to access company research using a new app developed for BlackBerry's forthcoming PlayBook tablet.

RBS GBM said the richly-featured mobile app for the BlackBerry PlayBook will provide its clients with instant access to "thought-provoking fixed income, commodity and currency (FICC) commentary and strategy reports while on the move".

The company added that the app will have a built-in algorithm that identifies clients' defined interests and viewing history to present the most relevant research and strategy to them.

Colin Jowers, global chief operating officer at RBS GBM research and strategy, told Computing that a survey of its client base had showed a large appetite for the service. RBS worked closely with RIM to develop the app.

"Although the whole tablet market is nascent and Apple has created a new platform, we think RIM with its PlayBook is in a tremendous position to capitalise on it," said Jowers.

The company has developed the app with RIM, because it believes that the PlayBook will drive enterprise tablet adoption.

"We believe the take-up of tablets in the enterprise space will pick up dramatically on the back of RIM's launch."

More apps for the PlayBook will follow. The company already has an iPad app in place for the US market, and Android apps are also in the pipeline.

"RBS is channel agnostic, and we're going to be developing Android versions. Soon we will have solutions on all devices on a global basis."

The company is not worried about security. According to Jowers, the model RBS has in place allows it to run applications safely even on products that are not known for security.