Thursday, December 20, 2012
How to add Facebook search to BlackBerry® browser
What you will need
Facebook account (log in on your browser)
BlackBerry OS7.1 – I have only tested this on my Bold 9900 running OS7.1
BlackBerry Browser search engines
When you open your BlackBerry browser and start searching in the address/search bar on the right end of that bar you might notice the Google icon, this means by default what ever you type in the search bar and search will be searched on Google.
Now in this tutorial we are going to add Facebook Search. As you can see I already have 5 search engines. I actually use 3 there:
Google – almost every 20minutes
Wikipedia – not so much
Dictionary.com very often
for the rest, I haven't tried to "yahoo" or "bing" something.
Managing your search engines
Now for us to add Facebook on our search engines we will click 'Manage…' (see screen above) and you will get to this:
Next click on 'New Search Engine':
In the name field type Facebook
In the address field type https://m.facebook.com/search/?search=people&query=%s
Press the BlackBerry menu key and save.
Now if you return to your browser and type a search term and click the Google icon to view a drop down list of all your search engines, voila, Facebook is now there.
Sent via BlackBerry Bold 9900 www.pcrx.weebly.com
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
Foursquare v5.5.8 Released for BlackBerry smartphones
You can check out the latest version http://appworld.blackberry.com/webstore/content/6921
Via;
http://rss.berryreview.com/~r/Berryreview/~3/GV-HqbUTpi4/
Sent via BlackBerry Bold 9900 www.pcrx.weebly.com
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
Twitter Profile changes on 12.12.12
This is not such a drastic change as Facebook's switch from regular profiles to Timeline profiles, but it is still worth to be mentioned as it may affect you as well. There are two options that you have in addition to what you were able to do before. The first and probably biggest change is the new header image that is displayed on top of your profile page on Twitter. This looks like this when configured:
If you do not upload a header image until December 12 you will see a gray header area instead where your current Twitter profile icon is displayed in.
To add the header image on Twitter click on the options button next to search and there on the settings link in the context menu. You can alternatively click on this link here to be taken there directly.
Click on change header and pick a header image for your Twitter profile page. Twitter recommends that the header has a size of at least 1252×626 pixels. You can zoom in or out of the uploaded header image and move it around a bit until it fits perfectly. Once done refresh your profile page and you should see the new header live on site.
You may also want to click on design while you are in the settings to modify the design of your profile page to reflect the change. Here you can pick one of the preset themes for the page or upload a custom background and pick the background position, color and link color manually instead.
The new profile will be available and editable on all supported devices.
It is a slim change in my opinion, nothing as major as Facebook's Timeline profile. It should not really irritate a lot of Twitter users when they first come into contact with the change. What's your opinion on the change?
http://www.ghacks.net/2012/12/11/twitter-profile-changes-on-12-12-12/
Sent via BlackBerry Bold 9900 www.pcrx.weebly.com
Friday, December 7, 2012
Appcelerator Titanium Pre-release for BlackBerry 10 Now Available! Webinar Next Week
Qualifying Built for BlackBerry Applications are eligible the 10k Developer Commitment with a guaranteed one year revenue of $10,000 USD
The first 1,000 participating developers to submit an app to BlackBerry App World which is created with the Titanium for BlackBerry 10 will receive a free BlackBerry Dev Alpha for testing*
Up to 10,000 developers will get free Appcelerator Cloud Services and Analytics (Terms and conditions apply)
Register for the offer at http://www.appcelerator.com/blackberry10. They also have a webinar going on titled "Developing on Blackberry 10 with Titanium" on Thursday December 13, 2012 at 1:00 pm EST. Register Now!
http://rss.berryreview.com/~r/Berryreview/~3/l0cdo6h_nmI/
Source; berryreview
Sent via BlackBerry Bold 9900 www.pcrx.weebly.com
RIM Pitches BlackBerry 10 Deal to Businesses
The company on Thursday announced BlackBerry 10 Ready, a new program intended to woo business customers to its new platform. Enrollment gets participants online training, a free BlackBerry 10 smartphone and the opportunity to trade up their BlackBerry Enterprise Server licenses.
That last offering is an important one, allowing companies transitioning to RIM's new platform to swap their existing BES licenses for new BES 10 licenses at no cost on a one-for-one basis. BES licenses aren't cheap. So RIM's offer of a free upgrade will likely appeal to some — particularly corporate holdouts that still subscribe to the "you will use a BlackBerry and that's an order" view of employee empowerment.
But these days, such firms are becoming fewer and fewer. As we've noted here before, the "bring your own device" era has given Android and iPhone serious traction in the enterprise market that RIM once dominated. And while promotions like BlackBerry 10 Ready will certainly garner interest, how much can they actually reverse a trend as seemingly powerful as the consumerization of IT?
http://allthingsd.com/20121206/rim-pitches-blackberry-10-deal-to-businesses/
Source; allthingsD
Sent via BlackBerry Bold 9900 www.pcrx.weebly.com
BlackBerry 10 Hub: Notifications, Texts, Emails and More [VIDEO]
The BlackBerry Hub is the single place for you to manage your conversations. From BBM and email to phone calls and social networks, they're always just a gesture away from anywhere in BlackBerry 10. It was designed to give hyper-connected people control over their conversations. Earlier this week you voted and it looks like messaging of all sorts is what you use your BlackBerry smartphone for most often. This will make the BlackBerry Hub the perfect fit in your lifestyle.
Find out from Patrick what makes the BlackBerry Hub stand out and why BlackBerry fans will appreciate the experience in our video interview below.
Link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iGof12IKQlU&feature=youtu.be
Via; Inside BlackBerry® Blog
Sent via BlackBerry Bold 9900 www.pcrx.weebly.com
Wednesday, December 5, 2012
How to unlock a BlackBerry®
First you will need your BlackBerry Torch 9850 / 9860's Unlock Code (MEP code)
You can get your unlock code a number of ways
1) Call your carrier and request an unlock code, (tell them you're going overseas for a better chance of getting it)
2) You can INSTANTLY get your Unlock Code from @fortneyland95
Once you have your TORCH 9850 / 9860's unlock code, you just need to enter it following these simple steps.
1) Insert an unaccepted SIM card – one that's not from the network your phone is locked to.
2) Select yes when prompted if you want to enter an unlock code
3) Enter your TORCH 9850/9860's unlock code.
You will not receive a “Code Accepted” messages or anything of the like,
but your phone will stand at the homescreen. *
Wait a few seconds and it should connect to the network carrier that the inserted SIM card is from.
Easy as 1 - 2 - 3!
or you can enter your unlock code like this
1) Go to Options -> Device -> Advanced System Settings -> Sim Card
2) Press and Hold the ALT key and type the letters "mepe" (without the quotes, you will not see anything on the screen when typing)
(If the ALT key is not showing on your keyboard hold down the 123 key it will switch to the numeric keyboard with the ALT locked down)
3) Once you see the Personalization Screen type "mep [alt] 2" (without the quotes, you will not see anything on the screen when typing).
You should be prompted for the code. If you're not prompted for the code, Press and Hold the ALT key and type MEP2
4) Enter the provided unlock code
it's recommend to do a Battery pull after unlocking your Blackberry
Now you're free to use your BlackBerry TORCH 9850 / 9860 with any GSM network worldwide!
Blackberry unlock instructions for Most models.
(83xx Curve, 8700, 8800,8900 Curve / 9000 Bold and Most other Models)
1 - Using the menu go to Settings Menu -> SIM card press select.
2 - While holding the SHIFT key, type mepd
3 - You should now see the five locking categories listed.
4 - While holding the SHIFT KEY, type mep2.
5 - Release the shift key.
6 - You are now prompted to enter the Network MEP code
(it will also state how many attempts left)
7 - Enter the code
8 - Enter Return/Enter
9 - The device should then be unlocked
Model : Blackberry 9530 Storm
1. Insert any SIM card and turn ON your Blackberry.
2. Turn OFF all the wireless connections.
3. Go Back One Step by Pressing the Back Key.
4. Go to Options
5. Select SIM card.
6. Press the Menu Key and select "Show Keyboard".
7. Tilt the phone in Horizontal Position so that the Keyboard is displayed in the Landscape Mode.
8. Type MEPD [you will not be able to see the typed info].
9. Then enter MEP2
10. Now your Blackberry will ask you to enter network MEP code
11. Enter the Unlock Code provided by us to you and Press the Enter Key on the Screen.
12. It will now say "Code Accepted'.
13. Congratulations! Your phone is now unlocked. Now your phone can be used with any GSM Network with SIM Card.
14. Go back to the Home Screen. Press the Menu Button and click on Manage Connections.
15. Turn all the Connections ON.The phone will now reboot and ''Activation Required'' will no longer be displayed.
Model : BlackBerry Bold 9000 & Torch
1) Make sure your SIM card is NOT inserted into the device.
2) Turn on the phone and click the "Manage Connections" icon. Choose the option "Turn off all connections." The cellular radio will be turned off.
3) Go back to the Home screen and click the "Options" icon and select "Advanced Options."
4) Scroll down and select "SIM Card" from the list.
5) Press the following keys in order: (M) (E) (P) (E)
6) A prompt will appear asking for the unlock code. Input the 16-digit code exactly.
9) Reboot your device.
10) Re-enable the cellular radio
Model : Curve, 8300, 8310, 8320, 8800, 8820
Must be done without a sim card inserted & wireless radios must be turned off.
1. Go to settings.
2. Go to options.
3. Go to advanced options.
4. Go to sim card.
4. Hold the ALT Key while typing in MEPE or MEPD or MEPPE or MEPPD ( not case sensitive ) ( you will not see text appear on screen while typing ).
5. It will say "Enter Network MEP Code, then you type in the unlock code, press in the trackball to confirm.
6. Your phone is now unlocked.
Model : Blackberry Storm (9500)
1. Insert any sim card
2. Turn off all of the wireless connections
3. Go to Options
4. Select Advanced Options
5. Select SIM Card
6. Hit menu select show keybord
7. Enter mepd (you will not be able to see the typed info)
8. Enter mep2
9. Now it will say enter network mep code
Model : BlackBerry 8700
Go to the Menu -> Options -> Advanced Options -> Sim card press select, while holding the Shift key (bottom right corner CAPS), type mepd. You should now see the five locking categories listed, while holding the alt key, type mep2. Release the alt key. You are now prompted to enter the Network MEP code. Enter the code, enter Return/Enter, the device should then be unlocked.
Model : BlackBerry 8800
***** You must have a SIM card in your phone to complete these steps ( Can be active or inactive ) *****
1 - Go to settings menu => and then Options
2 - Select Advanced options => and then Sim card
3 - Type MEPD using your Blackberry keyboard (NOTE: You will not see any text appear on the screen while typing MEPD)
4 - Hold the ALT Key while typing in MEPE on your Blackberry keyboard (NOTE: You will not see any text appear on the screen while typing MEPD)
5 - You should be presented with a prompt "Enter Network MEP Code". Type in the 16 digit unlock code received from UnlockBase.com and press in the track wheel / jog dial to confirm
6 - Your phone is now unlocked
Model : 81xx, 82xx Pearl and other sure-type handsets
1 - Go to Options Menu => Advanced Options
2 - In the SIM Card menu, hold down the shift (right of the zero, cap) press meppd
3 - You'll see the unlocking level screen there you hold the ALT key (left side below @) type mepp2
4 - Enter the unlock code.
Model : BlackBerry 8100 (Vodafone Australia)
PLEASE READ THE INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY BEFORE YOU ATTEMPT ANY UNLOCK PROCESS
This procedure unlocks the handset from being network restricted from only using SIM cards from Vodafone Australia. In case of difficulties, please refer to the FAQ listed below
1. Take note of the unlocking code shown above
2. Insert a Non-Vodafone Australia working SIM card.
3. Ensure the phone is charged and then switch the phone on.
4. Optional Step: If the SIM card has a PIN, enter your PIN number. (See FAQ below)
5. The phone will then display a message. The most common is "Invalid SIM card". (Different message? See FAQ below)
6. Select "Turn Wireless Off"
7. Select "Settings" Menu , then go to Advanced Options > SIM Card
8. Type alt-MEPT by holding the ALT-key and typing the letters MEPT with multitap i.e. type hold ALT, type {M}{ER}{OP}{OP}{TY}
9. When prompted with "Enter Network MEP code (255 left)" on the screen, enter the 16-digit network unlock code provided for your phone, then press Enter. (Unlocking code is shown above)
10. Reset the phone by pulling the battery
11. Switch the phone on and the handset will be unlocked automatically. This will be confirmed if you can make and receive calls with the Non-Vodafone Australia SIM card. (You will need reception and phone credit with the different network provider)
Please Note:
If the unlocking code is entered incorrectly the next attempt to unlock the device will be delayed for 10 seconds increments. The number of unlocking attempts is limited to 255 tries only. When 255 attempts is reached the phone will be permanently blocked.
To unblock the phone, it must be taken to a RIM service centre. No outgoing calls including emergency call is possible when the phone is blocked.
Troubleshooting:
Question: My phone asks to enter a PIN number
Answer: For SIM cards with PIN ENABLED you will be required to enter a PIN. This is not the unlocking code that has just been provided. For information concerning the PIN, PIN2, PUK and PUK2 codes for a SIM card please read the manual that came with your phone or contact your carrier. This is not a handset unlocking issue.
Question: Nothing happens when I type MEPD / MEP2
Answer: Try the following: (note the characters will not appear on the screen when typing the characters)
1. Put any SIM card in the handset. Can be active/inactive. If you already have a SIM in the handset, try a different SIM from a different carrier/provider.
2. Go to Wireless Connections in the main menu and turn off all connections, then follow the unlocking procedure again.
3. Ensure in the personalisation list the NETWORK option is ACTIVE (this means the phone is locked as the network lock is active) if it does not, check the phone is not already unlocked by putting in a SIM from a different carrier.
Question: BlackBerry Storm 9500/9530 - I am having problems entering MEPD and MEP2
Answer: Due to the fact you can't see what you're typing in the hidden menus, you should keep trying. For every attempt you must exit the menu before trying again. We recommend hovering over the correct character and then when you can see the correct character light up blue, then click the screen.
Also ensure there is a SIM card in the phone and try the procedure again. This can be any active/inactive SIM card from any network.
Question: I've successfully unlocked the handset but cannot use BlackBerry Data/Web/Email services
Answer: You will need to contact your carrier and ensure you have a working BlackBerry Internet Service / Bolt on attached to your tariff and that the BlackBerry has registered on their network. This usually is an extra cost and gives you access to the BlackBerry data services. If you already have this service, ask your network to ensure the handset is properly registered and ask them to send the 'Service Books' to the handset which will update any settings you have in the handset. Most carriers have a dedicated BlackBerry support team.
Tip: The following procedure can sometimes kicks the network into action - Options > Advanced Options > Host Routing Table > BlackBerry Logo Button > Register Now
Question: I've received more than one code from you, which one do I use?
Answer: Enter each code until you see the 'Code Accepted' message. Only one will be the correct unlock code. You should have 10 attempts to enter the correct code.
Question: My phone only shows 3 tries left and you have sent me more than 3 codes
Answer: Please contact us using the contact form and let us know this as we may need to read your phone with a small application to verify the 1 correct code or suggest what codes from our experience depending on your model.
Question: My phone shows 0 tries left when asking for the MEP code
Answer: If you have received this message, this means that 10 attempts at entering the correct unlock code have been used. Unfortunately in this circumstance the only way to unlock the handset is via a hardware solution
Sent via BlackBerry Bold 9900 www.pcrx.weebly.com
Monday, November 12, 2012
Sunday, November 11, 2012
BlackBerry still best phone in an emergency
http://nerdberry.net/2012/11/10/blackberry-still-best-phone-in-an-emergency/
Video source; msnbc
Via; Nerdberry
Thursday, November 8, 2012
Update for Battery Watch for BlackBerry Smartphones
http://bit.ly/SCk2es
Via; BBOS
jQueryMobile and Sencha Touch theme tools for BlackBerry 10
http://bit.ly/Rj1pwZ
Via; BBOS
Tips on using your BlackBerry®
http://bit.ly/T5lNBv
Via; BBOS
Wordpress update v2.2.4
http://bit.ly/T5Limg
Via; BBOS
RIM Releases the Specs for Developers Devices A&B
Back at BlackBerry World 2012 in Florida , developers who qualified , were presented with the Dev Alph A device. This was pure excitement, not only for developers but for those BlackBerry enthusiast who just needed to see something from RIM that would give them a much-needed confidence boost that in fact BlackBerry 10 is real and not just a myth.
After the very successful BlackBerry World in Florida , RIM decided to take the tour on the road and launch a series of events across the globe , specifically targeting developers. These series of events would be called BlackBerry Jam World Tour.
As BlackBerry Jam World Tour made its successful progression around the globe, selling out at almost all Jam events, RIM would eventually run out of the Dev Alpha A devices. With only so many Dev Alpha A devices created and the ever so high demand from developers , RIM had no choice but to put in production the Dev Alpha B device.
Below are the specs for both devices recently released by Research In Motion, Enjoy!
RIM Releases the Specs for Developers Devices A&B is a post from: RIMarkable, the Unofficial BlackBerry Weblog...
http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Rimarkable/~3/xVZHeMG0Yr8/rim-releases-the-specs-for-developers-devices-ab. via;N4BB
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
Caller ID Reader free!
Telemap M8 Offers Free Navigation app For UK Touchscreen BlackBerry Owners
Sent via BlackBerry Bold 9900 www.pcrx.weebly.com
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
BlackBerry 10 Icons to Look Like PlayBook’s at Launch?
He says "someone at RIM who confirmed developers should change their current app icons." RIM is apparently dropping the size from 150 x 150 down to 114 x 114.
Here's a quick look from the official guideline:
Application icons
Designing an icon for your BlackBerry smartphone application gives you the opportunity to showcase your application to BlackBerry users. In the BlackBerry World storefront, an icon is the first introduction that users have to your application. The icon also appears on the home screen as the way for users to open your application.
Your icon is placed on a transparent tile automatically with the application name label underneath the icon.
Best practices
The following best practices help your icon fit in with the application icons on the home screen.
Create an icon that is a 114 x 114 pixel square. This approach is the best (and easiest) way for your icon to fit in with other BlackBerry application icons. Larger icons will be scaled down to 114 x 114 pixels.
Focus on a single iconic metaphor that clearly represents the application. Think of your icon as a road sign that people understand quickly.
Base your icon on a square, circle, or rectangle shape.
Use a silhouette to differentiate your icon from other icons.
Try to maintain consistency with other BlackBerry application icons in scale, volume, and perspective.
Perspective and lighting
Apply lighting that is top-down at a 90 degree angle.
Create a focal point in the center of the icon.
Keep the icon flat and avoid excessive depth.
Apply the following properties for drop shadows: distance: 2 pixels, size: 2 pixels, and angle: 90 degrees.
Boundaries
Create an icon that is 106 x 106 pixels if you want to allow room for a drop shadow or outer glow.
If you use a symbol in your icon, try to make it the same size as the symbols in otherBlackBerry application icons.
Color palette
Use a five pixel stroke where appropriate. This is especially important so that icons with a dark background are always visible on the home screen.
Limit the number of colors that you use in your icon.
Materials
Limit the number of materials that you use. BlackBerry application icons draw from the following materials: soft plastic, paper, metal, and gloss. http://n4bb.com/blackberry-10-icons-look-like-playbooks-launch/ via; N4BB
Foursquare Launches Numbered Ratings System
Guitar Hero Creator Charles Huang Riffing on Android for Next Play
Green Throttle Games is coming out of stealth today with an idea for turning mobile devices into game consoles.
The Santa Clara, Calif. company was founded by former Guitar Hero co-creator Charles Huang, along with Matt Crowley and Karl Townsend, who both have a background in mobile.
"Mobile gaming is exploding, and new smart devices are becoming powerful alternatives to traditional consoles. We just need a simple and fun way for people to play games both on the go, and on the couch," Huang said, in a release.
Rather than buy a separate gaming device for the TV, like an Xbox or PlayStation, the company wants to enable gamers to play mobile games on the biggest screen in the house using their mobile phone or tablet. The Green Throttle Games gaming system allows a consumer to plug an Android phone or tablet into the TV using an adapter. Then, an analog game controller connects wirelessly to the phone, allowing a person to play on the TV without any standalone hardware.
It's similar to what some game companies have been trying to do with iPhones becoming the controller when connected to the TV via a cable.
Along with Green Throttle's launch, the company is starting to pitch developers on making games for its system ahead of the controller going on sale early next year. Developers can buy a kit today, including one of the company's controllers, to start developing games. So far, it has signed up several developers, including nWay, Free Range Games, Mercenary and Monstrous. The company also will be developing games on its own. To start with, Green Throttle will be compatible with Google Nexus 4, the HTC One X, Samsung Galaxy S II, S III and Galaxy Note and the Nexus 7 and Nexus 10. http://allthingsd.com/20121106/guitar-hero-creator-charles-huang-riffing-on-android-for-next-play/ via; allthingD
S File Explorer
http://blackberryappgenerator.com/mip/pct.jsp?p=614003080_517594&wl=9
Dropbox alternative Cubby now in open beta
Sent via BlackBerry Bold 9900 www.pcrx.weebly.com
Monday, November 5, 2012
VZW finally removing Vcast
South Africa get another Apps Lab
Jimmy Kimmel Commercial Pokes Fun At The New iPad Mini
Browse Instagram With flipStagram For BlackBerry PlayBook
Sent via BlackBerry Bold 9900 www.pcrx.weebly.com
Sunday, November 4, 2012
Thursday, October 25, 2012
9300 unlock bb
Unlock a BlackBerry
Monday, August 20, 2012
4G LTE BlackBerry PlayBook Review
"Everything is just a bit faster on the 4G LTE BlackBerry PlayBook"
Design: The 4G LTE PlayBook is still a great looking tablet in my book. It's solid all around with no excess and keeps true to great BlackBerry design. | Feel: I still love the feel and form of the 4G PlayBook. It's identical to the Wi-Fi version and the 7" size is perfect for a tablet. | |
Performance: The 4G LTE PlayBook is noticeably faster than the Wi-Fi version. The added processing power gives it much welcomed extra kick. | Quality: This is a well-built device - no question. It's solid all around and doesn't feel cheap in any areas. |
The Video - 4G LTE BlackBerry PlayBook UnboxingThe ritual unboxing of the 4G LTE BlackBerry PlayBook.YouTube Link (expand video for full view) |
The upgraded processor and LTE are nice additions and add to the overall PlayBook experience. Everything just seems to work more fluidly vs. the Wi-Fi version. | If you already have a BlackBerry PlayBook Wi-Fi, there is very little incentive to move to the 4G LTE version. The price and hit in battery life alone will keep folks away. |
RIM's ecosystem isn't huge and it doesn't have as many apps available as Android or iOS but there is more to buying a tablet than just games and apps. The experience as a whole has to be considered and for what the 4G LTE PlayBook offers it's an option that shouldn't be dismissed. | |
4G LTE BlackBerry PlayBook Technical Specifications and Features
If you're not familiar with what the 4G LTE BlackBerry PlayBook is packing for heat, here's the quick recap of its key features and specs:
- 7" LCD, 1024 x 600, WSVGA, capacitive touch screen with full multi-touch and gesture support
- BlackBerry Tablet OS with support for symmetric multiprocessing
- 1.5 GHz dual-core processor (TI OMAP 4460), w/ GPU
- 1 GB RAM
- Memory: Available in 32GB version only.
- 4800mAh battery
- Dual HD cameras (3 MP front facing, 5 MP rear facing), supports 1080p HD video recording
- Video playback: 1080p HD Video, H.264, MPEG, DivX, WMV
- Audio playback: MP3, AAC, WMA (Full list here)
- HDMI video output
- Wi-Fi - 802.11 a/b/g/n / LTE (700, 1700 MHz), HSPA+ (2100, 1900, 1700, 800, 900 MHz)
- Bluetooth 3.1 with support of the following Bluetooth profiles: Dial-Up Networking (DUN) Serial Port Profile (SPP) Secure Simple Pairing (SSP) Human Interface Device (HID) (keyboard only)
- Connectors: microHDMI, microUSB, charging contacts
- Digital compass (magnetometer), GPS
- Open, flexible application platform with support for WebKit/HTML-5, Adobe Flash Player 11.2, Adobe Mobile AIR, Adobe Reader, POSIX, OpenGL, Java
- Ultra thin and portable:
- Measures 5.1"x7.6"x0.4" (130mm x 194mm x 10mm)
- Weighs less than a pound (approximately 0.9 lb or 425g)
4G LTE BlackBerry PlayBook Hardware Impressions
At first glance, not much has changed.
Everything great about the original PlayBook has made it's way here. And some stuff that wasn't so great about the original PlayBook has been addressed. Yes, the power button hoopla has been addressed. In fact, it was addressed long ago.
Appearance, Form Factor, Build Quality
Minor changes most folks may miss.
As you can see, the label has been expanded on the bottom to better properly identify the device. Instead of just the size designation, you now have that LTE badging there. In addition to that, and what I assume is some sort of FCC requirement, the serial number and other device identifying properties have been moved around. Nothing huge.
You'll also notice when looking at the charging plugs on the bottom, they've changed those. Rather then being concave like they are on the BlackBerry PlayBook Wi-Fi, they now stick straight out. I'm not aware of any issues when using the BlackBerry Charging Pod for the BlackBerry PlayBook but I can see how the changes might help when using that. Seems it may allow for better contact with the plugs on the charging pod ensuring maximum charging.
The other obvious and necessary change comes by way of the addition of a microSIM card slot. You'll find it on the bottom of the device and it blends in rather well, all things considered. The microSIM tray slides out with ease and the microSIM fits in there just perfectly fine. If you managed to put the SIM in your BlackBerry or have ever taken it out, it should only take you a few seconds to note the cut off corner and properly place the microSIM in there properly. If you're having issues though, no matter. Here's a video to help guide you.
As for build quality, the 4G LTE PlayBook seems on par with the BlackBerry PlayBook Wi-Fi. I personally never had any issues with my Wi-Fi version such as dead pixels, lowered power buttons or well, anything really. Same for the 4G LTE BlackBerry PlayBook. Out of the box it looks great, feels solid, has no loose parts and no dead pixels. All good. That said; I'm certainly not making any promises there aren't a few lemons out there. It's a given a few will show up.
The 4G LTE PlayBook is physically designed for how I want to use a tablet.
The Nexus 7 comes close, but the out of the box portrait set-up of it hinders that feeling. Sure, it can be changed, but why should I have to change the LCD density on my tablet to make it behave how I expect when the PlayBook just comes that way?
Overall the form factor is great, though I do personally take some issues with browsing the web. It's not only a PlayBook issue either; it's pretty much any 7-inch tablet. I constantly feel as though I'm not seeing enough on the screen and have to scroll down numerous times to see all the content I want to see.
Flipping over to portrait helps some of this but alas, that also creates some formatting issues on some sites as well. Again, not PlayBook specific and I know not everyone feels that way but it something to keep in mind when going for any tablet that is 7-Inches.
4G LTE BlackBerry PlayBook OS
The OS has grown plenty since the original PlayBook release.
While BlackBerry users never really had a problem with the things that were missing, many others did and they can't pull the same jokes with the release of the 4G LTE BlackBerry PlayBook as they did with the BlackBerry PlayBook Wi-Fi. Yeah, RIM -- the company who pioneered email -- shipped native email on the BlackBerry PlayBook ... finally. Move along.
We were hoping the 4G LTE BlackBerry PlayBook would launch with OS 2.1 and all the additional goodies it will bring, that didn't happen for whatever reason. Instead, it launched with OS 2.0.1.668. We'll forgive RIM in this case, because we know that OS 2.1 is well under development and will be released soon enough.
Fact is that RIM is at even higher builds now than what they delivered to developers to test out only a few days ago. Plus, all versions of the BlackBerry PlayBook will eventually be upgraded to BlackBerry 10 as well and that's a good thing to know if you're considering the longevity of your purchase.
As you see above, 2.0.1.668 comes in at 373 with 9 bonus points but in testing 2.1.0.840, it actually comes in at 393 with 9 bonus points. The HTML5 test isn't the be all end all though so we put the iPad, Nexus 7 and 4G LTE BlackBerry PlayBook against each other in the Sunspider 0.9.1 java test as well. The 4G LTE BlackBerry PlayBook took that one as well:
- iPad - 1847.7ms
- Nexus 7 - 1728.9ms
- 4G LTE BlackBerry PlayBook - 1461.4ms
4G LTE BlackBerry PlayBook Processor
To non-tech nerds, this image means nothing. Translated though, it means speed increase.
We put it to the test in the videos below and overall, when all things are considered it certainly does help a bit. To say the difference is overwhelming wouldn't be accurate but side-by-side there is a difference. Apps install faster, the 4G LTE PlayBook reboots faster, the browser renders pages faster -- everything is just slightly a bit faster.
The problem with saying that though is that different people have different needs. Not everyone cares if an app opens up 3 seconds faster. Not everyone cares if the web pages load 3 seconds faster. Not everyone cares if they have to wait a minute longer for their device to reboot. Heck, some people may not even notice it happening unless it was directly pointed out to them. The change is notable, not significant.
After reading the comments, I took the suggestions and tested them out. Unsurprisingly to me, there was no difference. The 4G LTE PlayBook still had the advantage in all situations it did in the video above. Exact same OS loaded, exact same charge in both, exact same webpages loaded after clearing cache's and local storage files. Exact same results.
Whatever RIM did to the 4G LTE PlayBook, it has the advantage. Whether that lies in the processor or somewhere in the OS itself. Point blank, if those extra seconds mean all the difference to you and you're thinking about buying the 4G LTE PlayBook or upgrading from the BlackBerry PlayBook Wi-Fi -- do it.
4G LTE BlackBerry PlayBook Touch Screen Display
4G LTE PlayBook on top. image intentionally dark.
I'd likely have never noticed it if it wasn't for having them both available to compare but there is a difference. Problem with this situation is that you can never tell if it's a defect, on purpose or like in the case of some Apple devices, a problem that will go away over time. Until the 4G LTE PlayBook gets into more hands, it's hard to say.
4G LTE BlackBerry PlayBook Battery Life
I knew going into this, it wasn't going to fair well.
To set it all up: Both devices are running OS 2.0.1.668, both charged to 100 percent. Both with their displays set to 50 percent. The LTE PlayBook was set to LTE. The Wi-Fi PlayBook set to Wi-Fi. With Battery Guru installed to monitor it all, open up the browser and head to Infinitelooper and loop Gangnam Style for hours on end.
Result: The 4G LTE PlayBook choked out at around 3 hours and 45 mins, while the BlackBerry PlayBook Wi-Fi kept chugging along for another 2 hours and 40 mins.
Only one other item to check after Wi-Fi and LTE. Again, same settings all in place I started the process of testing just HSPA+ against the Wi-Fi only version. This is the part that kind of baffles me, even though I wasn't use LTE but instead using HSPA+ the 4G LTE PlayBook still gave around 4 hours while the W-Fi version again, chugged along.
Conclusion: If you're sole use is going to be Wi-Fi, you really shouldn't see much difference. But if you're going to be making use of LTE/HSPA+ be prepared to charge your PlayBook quite a bit. LTE and HSPA+ are battery hungry, it's just that simple.
Some fun info, the 4G LTE PlayBook appears to use a lower volted, higher power consuming battery then that of the PlayBook Wi-Fi according to Battery Guru.
Connectivity, 4G LTE, GPS
Fast like..woah!
Generally speaking, I don't think the speed tests should really be used for speed comparisons but rather a determination on how whether or not RIM has the LTE radio chops like they did on GSM. Overall, given this is the first LTE device from RIM, I'd say they have the LTE Radios down pat already. By the time a BlackBerry 10 device comes out, they'll be rockin.
To round out the rest of the stuff under connectivity, most of it remains unchanged really. GPS is there, Bluetooth is there and Wi-Fi of course. GPS in my testing has approved, read on below for more details:
Bluetooth: Some interesting notes under the Bluetooth section though, RIM has the device registered as having Bluetooth 3.1 although, that doesn't seem to be a standard protocol. A lot of devices are noted to have Bluetooth 3.1 but the Bluetooth Special Interest Group hasn't set a standard for it. In any case, the profiles most folks use are there and work fine as kind in my testing.
GPS: If you've used GPS on the BlackBerry PlayBook Wi-Fi then you already know it's not the greatest. It takes forever to spin up and when it does, unless you're outside on a sunny day without a cloud in the sky it's pretty much useless. That's been my experience with it, others may argue. The 4G LTE PlayBook though has been a very clear different story for me. Using the included Bing maps on my patio, pinpoints me right to my building. Straying outside of Bing maps I decided to download GPS test from BlackBerry App World to give it a go in comparison to my PlayBook Wi-Fi. GPS tester ended up pulling up the coordinates faster on the 4G LTE PlayBook then on the PlayBook Wi-Fi hands down.
Wi-Fi: If you were to look in the CrackBerry PlayBook forums to find people having issues with Wi-Fi on their PlayBooks you would find several threads. In my personal experience with both the Wi-Fi version and 4G LTE version of the BlackBerry PlayBook I've never had any issues. It just works for me. I don't doubt some folks have issues with different routers and such but none here to complain about.
NFC: This is is rather interesting. Numerous leaks leading up to the release of the 4G LTE PlayBook showed it as having NFC. When the LTE version arrived, documentation from carriers even showed support for it. Alas, it is there. The hardware supports it you just can't make use of it because RIM never turned it on in the OS. Will they eventually? Probably. When will that be? BlackBerry 10 I'm guessing. Until then it's a moot point.
4G LTE BlackBerry PlayBook Cameras/Video Recording
Still the same camera, meaning it takes fairly decent images.
Head to Head with the Competition
When it comes to comparing the 4G LTE BlackBerry PlayBook to other LTE enabled tablets on the market, you have quite a task on your hands. Most LTE tablets are assigned to a carrier be it Rogers, TELUS, Bell, Verizon, AT&T and whoever else you can possibly think of and while some offer to subsidize the pricing others don't. Looking around, here's what you'll find in terms of pricing:
- Samsung Galaxy Tab 8.9 LTE (16GB) - $650 - No contract, $300 - with contract (Bell, Rogers)
- Apple iPad LTE 32GB - $730 - (Carriers don't subsidize iPad pricing)
- DROID XYBOARD 10.1 32GB - $630 - No contract (Verizon)
- DROID XYBOARD 8.2 32GB - $530 - No contract (Verizon)
- Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 32GB - $630 - No contract (Verizon)
- Samsung Galaxy Tab 2.0 7-Inch - $350 - No contract (Verizon) / 8GB internal but its expandable to 64GB
- HTC Jetstream - $550 - No contract - (AT&T)
The iPad is a great option but coming in a couple hundred dollars more than anything else may make it a non-starter for some folks out there and understandably so. That's not to say the 4G LTE PlayBook is cheap either. it's a car payment, rent or mortgage payment, groceries in the fridge. No matter how you look at it $550 is a lot to lay down on a tablet that will just diminish in value over time.
I leave the value proposition of the 4G LTE PlayBook in your capable hands and suggest that if you're looking to buy a tablet, buy what fits your needs or whatever you perceive to be the best value. After all, it's your money and you who is using it. You'll have to decide which ecosystem you want to invest in, how much it will cost you, which one has the stuff you need and want to use.
4G LTE BlackBerry PlayBook Accessories
After you get your 4G LTE BlackBerry PlayBook up and running you'll certainly want to grab some accessories to go along with it. If you're already a BlackBerry PlayBook Wi-Fi owner all of your previous accessories will work but, you can always grab some of that non-transferrable stuff or just pick up something special for your new tablet. At ShopCrackBerry.com we have just what you need - from cases to chargers to batteries and more. We get new items in stock every day, so if you don't see what you want now, just check back later. And with great international shipping options, you can get accessories almost anywhere in the world within a few days.
Shop all 4G LTE BlackBerry PlayBook Accessories
4G LTE BlackBerry PlayBook Pros / Cons
Pros
- 4G LTE / HSPA+
- Faster Processor
- Improved GPS
- Upgradeable to BlackBerry 10
Cons
- Less than stellar battery life
- Additional data plan recommended
- Can't be used as a HotSpot
- Costly upgrade
The Bottom Line
I thought for a very long time on how to close out this review. Reason being, anyone who knows me knows I often switch devices. I do use an iPhone, I do use a Samsung Galaxy Note, I do use a Samsung Galaxy Nexus and I do use a BlackBerry Bold 9900. Looking at that device list, you'll notice one singular thing that is common about all of them.
They offer me the chance to use any of them as a wireless HotSpot, meaning I can turn that functionality on and can connect my BlackBerry PlayBook Wi-Fi to them at any point for either a HSPA+ or LTE connection depending on the device.
In my case, there is no justification for me to pick up a 4G LTE BlackBerry PlayBook because I can do what it does already connection wise with my current devices. The incentives are reduced at that point to 'Do I want a BlackBerry PlayBook with a 1.5GHz processor?' In which case, for the cost of it -- no I don't. That said, I'm not the average consumer. I'm a tech whore and I don't fit average and not everyone has numerous tablets and numerous other phones available to them.
For folks who already have a BlackBerry PlayBook Wi-Fi or are thinking about picking up a 4G LTE PlayBook, the choice is tougher. Yes, you'll get 4G LTE and the faster processor but you'll be paying for it. Whether you go with a contract and data plan or you go out and buy it off contract, there will be a rather significant amount of money spent.
Taking a step back and trying to envision myself as just a regular customer with some technological knowledge, the 4G LTE BlackBerry PlayBook is a great option over some of the other tablets out there. Sure, RIM's ecosystem isn't huge and it doesn't have as many apps available as Android or iOS but there is more to buying a tablet than just games and apps. The experience as a whole has to be considered and for what the 4G LTE PlayBook offers at its price point, it's an option that shouldn't be dismissed.
4G LTE BlackBerry PlayBook Links
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Feed the Kitten Both Paid and Free Versions Now Available
Feed the Kitten Both Paid and Free Versions Now Available
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via: nerdberry
Leaked OS 7.1.0.649 now available for most devices
*OS Disclaimer - Please Read: Keep in mind this is NOT an official release and as such is not supported by RIM or your Carrier. If you choose to install, do so at your own risk and only if you're comfortable in the process of upgrading and downgrading your device software. It is quite normal during operating system development for certain features to be crippled or disabled while others are tested, and these beta builds often reflect that. They are not always better. Depending on your BlackBerry comfort level, it may be best for you to wait for community feedback on a build before deciding to download and install for yourself or simply wait for the next official release. If you require support, you will find it in our CrackBerry forums via our extremely knowledgeable community base - do not contact your carrier or RIM for Beta OS technical support (their first course of action will be to advise you to downgrade to a supported OS). *
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