IRVINE, Calif. -

Seen as a possible catalyst to year-end sales, this week Kelley Blue Book officially announced the launch of its free, interactive Android application, a tool intended to complement its iPhone and Windows Phone 7 apps that are also available.

KBB indicated that since its launch in the Android Market in mid-November, the app has received more than 50,000 downloads and is currently among the top 10 free lifestyle applications. 

This app, which is designed to connect users to all of the same tools available at Kbb.com, features a widget that can be positioned on a phone’s home screen that allows for tracking vehicle values. Officials explained that whether users want to track their trade-in value prior to buying another vehicle or stay updated on their current vehicle value’s changes, the widget can provide this current information.

Like its applications for iPhone and Windows Phone 7, Kelley Blue Book pointed out the Android app can give users access to new- and used-vehicle values, including MSRP, Invoice, Fair Purchase Price, Certified Pre-Owned, Suggested Retail, Private Party and Trade-In Values. 
In addition, the apps can assist shoppers with finding a local dealer with detailed maps and directions and view vehicle photos and new-car video reviews from the expert editors of Kbb.com.

Here’s how the widget can be accessed after downloading the app. Officials said users need to configure the widget by long-clicking on an empty space on the Android desktop, choose “Android Widgets,” and then select the Kbb.com widget from the menu. 

Kelley Blue Book also noted that the app includes a little added bonus. There’s now a winter-themed “Easter egg,” featuring snow and a sledding child.  “Easter egg” is a wireless-industry term for a lighthearted feature contained within a tool.

Justin Yaros, executive vice president of product design and development for Kbb.com, elaborated about what the Android app is intended to do.

“Kelley Blue Book took the Android app a step further in creating a pricing widget, giving consumers the information they need at their fingertips,” Yaros stated.

“The information found in the app and widget can help car buyers and sellers make more educated decisions with a better understanding of their current ride’s value and what is considered a great deal for a new vehicle,” he continued.

“With the all-new app, Kbb.com provides trusted valuation information not currently found within the Android Market,” Yaros added.

Furthermore, the app for Android also features Kbb.com’s Twitter feed, intended to provide insight into the latest industry news and information.

To download the latest Kbb.com Android app, visit the site on any Android device. 

For more information about other applications and mobile offerings from Kelley Blue Book, visit www.kbb.com/company/mobile.