BlackBerry has today updated BBM to add support for devices running Android 2.3 Gingerbread. Until now, only those running Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich or above could enjoy the cross-platform messaging service, but with over 20% of Android users still running the 3-year-old software, BlackBerry knew that had to change.

It’s been just over three months since Google made Android 4.4 KitKat available to the public, but only 1.8 percent of Android-powered devices are running it. Jelly Bean continues to have the largest reach with a 60.7 percent share — up from 60.1 percent in January — while Gingerbread’s share is slowly but surely getting smaller.

Earlier this week, BlackBerry announced a “special” version of BBM that will deliver support for devices running Android 2.3.3 Gingerbread. It’s set for its public release next month, but users can now download a leaked APK file and get their hands on it early.

Smartphone users who are still running Android 2.3.3 Gingerbread will finally be able to get their hands on BBM next month. BlackBerry has confirmed that it will launch a “special” version of its popular messaging app to support the 3-year-old operating system, opening it up to millions more users on Android.

While Google’s “open” approach to Play Store applications comes with its downsides, there are plenty of advantages, too. One of them is the plethora of wonderful titles that wouldn’t make it past stage one of Apple’s review process for iOS — such as the long list of emulators that allow you to play classic console games.

One of the latest is called Reicast, and it brings your favorite Dreamcast titles to your smartphone and tablet.