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JiveTalk only came out of beta and into normal production about 3 weeks ago, and already BeeJive, the developer behind the instant messaging client for BlackBerrys, is previewing the upcoming 1.0.1 build.

What's special about this build is it will allow file transfers in your instant messages; supporting AOL and ICQ only. So, for example, you can exchange files with any other AIM client that supports standard AIM file transfers.

Here is where it gets really good: When you are on BlackBerry Internet Service (BIS) transport, there is a file limit of 512k. But if you are using the Transmission Control Protocol through JiveTalk, there is no size limit to file transfers, overcoming a serious hurdle for some people.

In order for the preview build and file transfer options to work you need a BlackBerry running OS 4.2 and a microSD card in the expansion slot. This limits the new JiveTalk file transfer feature to the BlackBerry 8100/Pearl, 8300/Curve, and 8800 series models.

What might you use the file transfer feature for?

Here are a couple of scenarios:

You don't want to wait for an e-mail to get to you on your BlackBerry or the person you are chatting over IM with doesn't feel like opening up their e-mail client. With the file transfer feature they can simply drop the file into an instant message to get it to you.

A possibly more useful use of this feature is it makes it easy for you to transfer files, MP3s and pictures, from your PC to your BlackBerry over the air.