BlackBird
A secure mobile messenger for business networking
BlackBird is an iOS chat app that helps users build and expand their business networks.
1.5 years
Mobile development
Telecommunication
iOS
Chat
The app has vast chat functionality that helps users maintain the business network.
Contact cards
Users can create digital business cards which list their position and occupation.
Reminders
The app allows users to create detailed notifications for upcoming events.
Blast messages
Users can send messages to many contacts at once without creating one group.
About
Project Idea
The client partnered with us to create a mobile messenger for building up and supporting their business network. One of their requirements was that the app provides its users with top-notch security.
Team
Project manager
Frontend engineer
Backend engineer
iOS engineer
QA engineer
Wireframes
While making wireframes for BlackBird, we were bearing in mind the concepts of simplicity and functionality.
Technology Stack
The technologies and tools we used on the project include:
Custom illustration
All illustrations for BlackBird are drawn from scratch by our design team.
Authentication & log in
Users register via an SMS verification code sent to their mobile phone or via email. They must then create a 4-digit PIN number for accessing the app.
Contact cards
When a user enters their profile, they can create and share one or several business cards where they indicate their occupation, contact details, address, and social media.
Reminders
The app allows users to set up detailed reminders about all types of business-related activities like calls, meetings, business lunches, and other events.
Blast messages
BlackBird can create group chats, but if a user needs to send a message to multiple people individually, they can use Blast messages and create drip campaigns.
Hybrid development approach
The chat functionality and encryption algorithms were written in Swift which is a native iOS language. However, other features including BlackBird’s UI were written with the help of cross-platform React Native. To make both parts work together smoothly, we created a bridge that allows the cross-platform part to communicate with the native one.
Challenges and Solutions
Enhanced security
Problem:
The client wanted BlackBird to have the utmost level of security. Specifically, they requested that all personal information and chat history contained in the app should not be accessible to any third-party service.
Solution:
Our team implemented several options of login so users can choose what they trust the most: Face ID, two-factor authentication via SMS code, password, and PIN number. Also, we created an end-to-end encryption algorithm for messaging so all information is protected.
Deep linking implementation
Problem:
Users should be able to invite friends to the app and share contacts and contact cards with other people. To achieve this functionality, we needed to implement deep links.
Solution:
We integrated deep linking via the React Native app.
How it works
Here is what BlackBird looks like right now.
