We’ve been eagerly anticipating the launch of BBM for Android since BlackBerry announced it back in May, but the Canadian company has done a pretty good job of keeping the app close to its chest ahead of its public launch. So aside from a few leaked screenshots, we really had no idea what it would look like or how it would perform.

But that’s no longer the case, thanks to the hands-on tour video below.

After being leaked a number of times in recent weeks, the Desire 601 was today made official by HTC. The midrange handset has been designed to provide access to a number of headline HTC features — such as BoomSound, Sense 5, and HTC Zoe — in a slightly smaller, cheaper package.

Dreams of an Android-powered Nokia were well and truly quashed today when Microsoft announced that it has reached a deal to acquire Nokia’s Devices and Services unit for $7.2 billion. The move will see Microsoft take ownership of the Finnish firm’s entire smartphone lineup, giving it complete control over both hardware and software.

Verizon has today announced that it has reached a deal to acquire Vodafone’s 45% stake in the company for £130 billion. The buyout consists primarily of cash and stock, and was unanimously approved by the board of directors of both Verizon and Vodafone. It’s expected to be completed in 2014 following regulatory approvals.

Two days ago, Huawei officially unveiled its latest affordable mid-range Android smartphone, the Honor 3, which is one of the company’s most unique devices on the market. It features IP57 dust and waterproofing, with a touchscreen that is capable of recognizing wet fingertips. This handset is now available to purchase in China for ¥1,888 ($309).