MTN has refuted talk that it is considering ending the popular flat-rated BlackBerry Internet Service (BIS) that gives users of existing BlackBerry devices unlimited browsing, e-mail and use of the BlackBerry Messenger (BBM) service for a low fixed monthly fee.

Speculation that the operator was terminating BIS emerged in the wake of the announcement of BlackBerry’s latest device, the Z10, which is powered by BlackBerry 10, the Canadian company’s latest version of its mobile operating system that apparently won’t support BIS.

In a statement, MTN says there has been “speculation in the public domain” that the operator plans to end the BIS plans.

“MTN wishes to clear up the confusion and put its customers at ease by assuring them that the BIS service will not be discontinued.”

The operator adds that it has an “array of Blackberry plans designed to suit the demands and affordability of its customers” and that it will make the necessary announcements to the public should there be any changes to its BIS services, “but we do not intend to discontinue the service”. — (c) 2013 NewsCentral Media