Showing posts with label BlackBerry. Show all posts
Showing posts with label BlackBerry. Show all posts

Tuesday, December 6, 2011

BlackBerry Curve 9360 vs Nokia Lumia 710

Nokia's Lumia 710 is the second device to emerge from the Finns coalition with CEO Stephen Elop's ex-employers Microsoft, and the device is looking a shoo-in to be as successful as its big-brother, the Lumia 800.

The Lumia 710's competition is the newly reinvigorated Curve 9360 from BlackBerry. A device which packs in plenty of features that RIM used to reserve for the top of the line Bold-class smartphones. But does this new Curve have what it takes to best a new, touchscreen only device?

Software

Straight out of the traps it's easy to see how the Nokia Lumia 710 benefits from the Windows Phone 7.5 OS. It's fast, slick, offers almost every feature imaginable and looks the part too.

The new iteration of the OS, version 7.5 (Mango), adds plenty to the foundations set down a year ago. There's now a new unified inbox, a new version of Internet Explorer, multi-tasking and an improved tile system which offers more information at a glance than previous versions.

The Windows Phone Marketplace offers an ever expanding range of apps for the OS, many of which are free of charge, and the support Microsoft has given developers is evident here.

Right now Windows Phone 7.5 is excellent, in a year's time it could be world-beating.

The Curve 9360 runs on version 7.0 of BlackBerry OS which, though billed as a 'new' version, is more an update to version 6.0.

The OS is still fast, simple to use and very efficient though. So it hasn't lost its virtues with age.

For all of its distinguishing qualities, and there are plenty, BlackBerry OS 7.0 seems very dated. The interface is still largely text-based, the number of apps available via the BlackBerry App World is minute compared to its competitors and with no widgets or live information functionality you may feel like you've stepped back to the early noughties should you pick one up.

Winner - Nokia Lumia 710

Screen

BlackBerry's Curve 9360 comes with a 2.45-inch HVGA+ screen with a very pleasing pixel density of 246PPI.

Despite its small size it's a dream to watch video clips on (or even full movies if you commute) and the overall performance is fantastic. The colours are warm and realistic and the viewing angles are second to none.

The Nokia Lumia 710 features a 3.7-inch TFT capacitive touchscreen which is every bit as decent as the myriad others on the market right now, with the added bonus of having a pixel density of 252PPI, giving it the edge over many of its competitors.

As with the Curve 9360, the Lumia 710's display offers crisp, vivid colours, responsive performance and reasonable sunlight legibility.

Winner - Draw

Power

Nokia opted to fit the Lumia 710 with a large single-core processor, and the 1.4GHz Scorpion CPU does its job superbly. In addition to the main chip the device benefits from an Adreno 2.5 GPU and 512MB RAM, giving it a predictably solid drive-train with which to keep the Windows Phone OS buzzing along.

One area where the Lumia 710 is lacking is support for external memory cards as it doesn't offer any at all. But the device does come with 8GB of on-board storage, so that needn't be a big issue.

The BlackBerry Curve 9360 is powered by an 800MHz CPU and also offers 512MB RAM, which may seem small but is perfectly adequate to keep the little messenger moving along at a fair turn of pace.

The device supports MicroSD cards up to 32GB in size to make up for its less than impressive 512MB of storage out of the box.

Winner - Nokia Lumia 710


Camera

RIM doesn't have a particularly good track record for the photographic capabilities of its devices and we're sorry to say that this hasn't changed with the Curve 9360.

The device's 5-megapixel camera with LED flash, geo-tagging, face detection, image stabilisation and VGA video capture is disappointing from top to bottom, with lacklustre video capture and an awful fixed focus system for capturing stills.

In ideal light conditions with a stationary subject you can capture a fairly decent image, but let's be honest, who has the time or inclination to wait and organise when they're taking a photo out and about?

The Nokia Lumia 710 has a 5-megapixel autofocus camera which is very much more the ticket. The camera benefits from an LED flash, face detection and geo-tagging, as well as 720P video capture, and the results are pleasing, though a little noisy in low-light conditions.

If you're looking for a device to snap photos on the move then the Lumia 710 should make your shortlist. The BlackBerry Curve 9360 most certainly should not.

Winner - Nokia Lumia 710

Form & Build

Nokia Lumia 710 - 119 x 62.4 x 12.5 mm, 125.5 g
BlackBerry Curve 9360 - 109 x 60 x 11 mm, 99 g

Both devices in this comparison are exceedingly well built.

The Nokia Lumia 710 is solid, comfortable in the hand and at the ear, and is light enough not to feel like an encumbrance in your pocket all day long.

The BlackBerry Curve 9360 is also a tremendously well assembled smartphone. It's small, well designed, offers an incredible hardware QWERTY keyboard which makes messaging and emailing a pleasure, and is comfortable to make a long call on.

If we had to choose and, well, we do, then we'd tip our hat at the Curve 9360. It's super small, offers excellent battery life and feels like you could kick it around a 5-a-side pitch for 90 minutes without breaking it (not that we'd advise it).

Winner - BlackBerry Curve 9360

Despite a late push, the Curve 9360 has come out second best today. It's a nice, compact smartphone which is available for an excellent price, but it's let down by a sub-par camera and lack of quality app support.

The Nokia Lumia 710 on the other hand, is a solid second entry into the Windows Phone 7 range and, as we've seen with the Lumia 800, with Nokia's hardware and Microsoft's software the only way is up.

Saturday, December 3, 2011

Android gains ground from BlackBerry in latest US mobile comScore figures

The outlook has been grim for RIM’s BlackBerry platform for some time, and new figures out today from comScore add to the gloom.
The data company’s report, looking at mobile market share in the US in October 2011, shows BlackBerry dropping 4.5 percentage points in terms of share of smartphone subscribers since July, dropping to 17.2% of the market. Meanwhile, Google’s Android has gained 4.4 percentage points, extending its lead with 46.3%. Apple saw a modest gain rising 1 percentage point to 28.1%.
Meanwhile, Microsoft and Symbian’s market shares by platform both saw modest 0.3 percentage point declines in the three months up to October.

There was little change in terms of manufacturer market share though. Samsung held steady at the top, with 25.5% of the market. LG, Motorola saw modest declines of less than 1%. RIM was down 1% and Apple saw a 1% gain, perhaps helped by interest in the iPhone 4S, released in mid-October.
Screen Shot 2011 12 02 at 17.44.28 Android gains ground from BlackBerry in latest US mobile comScore figures

Wednesday, November 30, 2011

BlackBerry Mobile Fusion manages corporate assets on Android

RIM is having a tough time right now. They’re being squeezed from the top with iOS and from the bottom (well, bottom, top, sides and everywhere else) with Android. But the BlackBerry hardware is only part of RIM’s overall business, and they’re making a major effort to expand even more into the corporate services space. BlackBerry Mobile Fusion will allow IT managers to access and control company assets on BlackBerry, Android and iOS devices, essentially making the existing Enterprise Server cross-platform.


Managing a workforce that increasingly relies on mobile hardware isn’t easy when there’s dozens of different configurations to customize. But as long as employees stick to a late model BlackBerry, Android Froyo or Gingerbread or iOS 4+, their security and access can be managed remotely. Spotty version support is going to cause a few problems in the coming months – Honeycomb isn’t really a factor for corporate networks, but Ice Cream Sandwich may well be by mid 2012.
RIM has a while to iron out the kinks. The beta program won’t begin until January, with a wider public beta available in March, so there’s almost four months to widen support and squash some bugs. I suppose your local megalithic corp’s accounts department can use the time to shore up funds for those $200 PlayBooks – just get the marketing department to justify it.
[via SlashGear]

Thursday, October 6, 2011

Android continues to gain market share in U.S. while Blackberry OS continues to dwindle

comScore released their latest U.S. smartphone market share report, and as expected, Android continues to dominate. During the 3-month period ending in August, 2011, 84.5 million people owned smartphones in the U.S., a 10% increase from the previous 3-month period.
During the 3-month period ending in August, Android’s OS market share increased by 5 percentage points to control 43.7 percent of the smartphone market in the U.S. Apple came in second with 27.3 percent of U.S. smartphone market, an increase of 0.7 percent from the previous period.
While Apple and Google gained market share, RIM on the other hand didn’t do so good. Overall, Blackberry OS saw a decline in market share by dropping to 19.7 percent, a 5 percent decrease from the previous period where they controlled 24 percent.
Source: comScore

Monday, October 3, 2011

Leaked screens of BBM for Android surface

One of the things about Blackberry devices that is most liked by users is the Blackberry Messenger service. If you are an Android user that used to have a Blackberry that may well be the only thing you really miss from the Blackberry. Apparently, that BBM service is heading to Android devices and will let you get back on BBM if you want.


TechRadar has landed what are supposedly the first screenshots of the BBM on Android to surface. The port from Blackberry to Android has been rumored in the past, but this is the first time screen shots have surfaced. BBM for Android is expected to land in 2012. The screen shots show the BBM icon on the Android home page of the device in the photos.
The other screen shot shows the contract profile page. The source of the leaked documents also claims that the BBM will work with push notifications on Android. The legitimacy of these screens can’t be verified so we have to be a little suspicious. What do you think? Are these shots real and are you excited to see BBM come to Android?
bbm-android-1 bbm-android-2 [via TechRadar]

Friday, September 9, 2011

BlackBerry Curve 9350 reportedly delayed until October



Sprint is moving the launch of the BlackBerry Curve 9350 smartphone back by a month, according to Phone Arena’s sources. The company has reportedly sent out an internal memo to employees informing them of the change of plans.
RIM unveiled the BlackBerry Curve 9350 in August this year and the phone was set to be launched on Friday. The phone has a non-touchscreen 2.44-inch screen with a resolution of 360×480 pixels and a 5-megapixel camera. It is expected to be priced at $80 with a two-year contract with Sprint. The memo seems to have given no reason for the delay.Engadget

Wednesday, September 7, 2011

Verizon gets official with BlackBerry Torch 9850 launch date and pricing


No more waiting on details for the Verizon BlackBerry Torch 9850 we spotted earlier this summer. As expected, RIM’s latest all-touch smartphone will be available online starting on September 8, and will be in stores on September 15. Pricing will sit at $199.99 on a two-year contract, which is a bit pricier than what Sprint’s asking, but I’m sure that cost will go down quickly enough.
The BlackBerry Torch 9850 lines up with the other new OS 7 devices from RIM, packing a 1.2 GHz processor, 768 MB of RAM, 5 megapixel camera with LED flash and 720p video recording, a solid 3.7-inch 800 x 480 capacitive touchscreen. Augmented reality is finally a go on the newer devices, but this one doesn’t have NFC, and the rumoured inclusion of mobile hotspot sadly didn’t pan out. As far as connectivity goes, the 9850 plays on both GSM and CDMA 2G and 3G networks, ensuring solid world roaming (if not any high-end LTE action). The software’s nicely polished and responsive, but more or less the same experience you’ve come to expect on a BlackBerry. I reviewed the Sprint model, if you’re thinking about picking up the Verizon one.
The Torch 9850 joins the Bold 9930 in Verizon’s BlackBerry lineup, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see the Curve 9350 show up later this month, and possibly a lower-end version of the all-touch BlackBerry to keep the other two company. You’ll be able to find the Torch 9850 in the online store over here starting Thursday.
[via]

Tuesday, September 6, 2011

BlackBerry App World 3.0 now available


RIM has released BlackBerry App World 3.0 for its smartphone users. The redesigned front-end for the company's store has been crafted to make it easier to find applications, games and themes, with each category getting its own channel.
Other new features include App Social Sharing, an option to tell friends about a newly discovered application through BBM, Twitter, Facebook, email or SMS, straight from the app's screen; My Account, offering direct access to account information from the home screen, thereby making it easier to manage BBID and payment options; An evolved App Details screen, which now presents a?quick summary, screenshots and star ratings, and allows the user to check out reviews; And there are improved search options, with a search bar now appearing on the storefront home screen. It also offers the ability to filter by?App Name, Price, Rating, Newest, Best Match, or Popular.
The update will be available for BlackBerry OS 5.0+ users and will be rolled out over the next couple of days. Some owners are reporting that it's already arrived for their devices.
The full list of BlackBerry App World 3.0 features are as follows:
Sleek New Design - The BlackBerry App World experience has been enhanced to help users discover the latest and greatest apps and content, starting right on the BlackBerry App World home screen where rotating spotlight banners show off all that’s new and exciting.
New Channels - Apps, Games, and Themes now have their own channels so users can get to what they want even faster.
Introduction of My Account - My Account makes managing BBID and payment options easy with direct access to all account information from the home screen.
New My World Features - My World gives users a streamlined view of their apps and status, and now at a glance, in addition to seeing which apps are installed and uninstalled, users can manage subscription content and services.? When new updates or subscription renewals are available for apps, users will be notified using push technology.
App Social Sharing - When a user finds an app they can’t live without, they can share it directly from the app details screen through BBM, Facebook, Twitter, email and SMS.
Evolved App Details Screen - At a glance, users can get a quick summary, check out reviews and star ratings, take a look at screen shots, and more.
More Search Options - Quickly find apps with a Search Bar now appearing on the storefront home screen and search results are presented across Channels as well as My World.? Search Bars are also within each Channel and users have the ability to filter by App Name, Price, Rating, Newest, Best Match, or Popular.

Thursday, September 1, 2011

Nielsen: Android takes 40% of U.S. smartphone market in July; iOS flat, RIM down a point


Google’s Android platform gained once again during the three-month period ending in July, increasing it’s share by 1% over second-quarter totals to grab 40% of the U.S. smartphone market. Apple’s iOS stayed flat at 28% and RIM’s BlackBerry OS lost one point from June-quarter figures to fall to 19%. Windows Mobile and Windows Phone combined to take 8% of the market — with Windows Phone responsible for just 1% on its own — and the ghost of smartphone operating systems past is now buried somewhere in the “Other” category. Nielsen also notes that 40% of mobile phone users between May and July of this year owned smartphones, and Android topped iOS in the firm’s survey of which smartphone platform users intend to buy next. From “innovators” to “late adopters,” each consumer group Nielsen polled but one — “early adopters” — found Android to be the most appealing OS for their next purchases. A chart outlining consumers’ next desired smartphone operating system follows below.
Read

Friday, August 26, 2011

Carriers seeking an alternative to Apple, Google may turn back to BlackBerry


Research In Motion will benefit in the near term from the ongoing launch of its new BlackBerry 7 smartphones, which are being described as the vendor’s strongest devices in some time. Sterne Agee analyst Shaw Wu upgraded his rating on RIM stock to Buy from Neutral, increasing his price target to $35 from $28. Wu sees near-term opportunity in RIM, and he thinks new BlackBerry handsets like the Bold 9900 will be well received. ”The key differences this time include a refined user interface and improved hardware including faster processors, better graphics and displays as well as better build quality with its greater use of premium materials,” Wu wrote on Friday. “The company recently launched the new Bold 9900 and Torch 9810 and we see the upcoming launch of the full touchscreen Torch and new lower-end Curve in upcoming 1-2 quarters as future catalysts. RIMM has undoubtedly lost some customers but for loyalists still using 2-3 year old models, these refined updates are a worthy upgrade.” Read on for more.
Wu goes on to add that RIM could capitalize while Nokia transitions from Symbian to Microsoft’s Windows Phone platform, though he did add that there is still concern surrounding s RIM’s long-term fundamentals and the risk of falling handset margins and increased competition. Perhaps most interestingly, however, the analyst says carriers are relaying a desire to broaden their portfolios to include a viable alternative to Google’s Android OS and Apple’s iOS platform, which now dominate the smartphone market. ”In our conservation with carriers, they are increasingly concerned with the growing dominance of GOOG and AAPL and want a viable No. 3 alternative,” Wu wrote. “We believe RIMM benefits being the incumbent and with now a stronger product set.”

Android Copyright Found Inside Leaked BlackBerry OS 7 – But Why?



A leaked copy of BlackBerry OS 7 (7.0.0.353 to be exact) has been making its way around the internets and someone with a very keen perception to detail, actually took the time to read through the copyrights found within. What did they find? Well, apparently RIM felt the need to give credit to the Android Open Source Project. Wait- what?

Now, let me stop you right there. Don’t confuse BlackBerry OS 7 for the QNX OS running on the BlackBerry Playbook. They are entirely different operating systems and I know this would make a lot more sense if BB OS 7 was QNX seeing how its been long announced that it will feature the ability to play Android apps via a handy app player.
So what exactly is going on here? No one knows for certain. Its obvious BlackBerry OS 7 is taking some kind of code from Android but that’s all we can be sure at this moment. I’ll turn this to our always sensible and knowledgeable readers. You guys have any idea what could be going on here? Chime in below.
[BerryReview via PocketNow]

Tuesday, August 23, 2011

RIM unveils BlackBerry Curve 9350, 9360 and 9370 smartphones


Continuing on its peculiar path for BlackBerry 7 device announcements, RIM finally took the wraps off three new additions to its Curve smartphone line in the middle of the night. The BlackBerry Curve 9350, 9360 and 9370 smartphones, like the Curve models that came before them, take the best of what RIM has to offer and stuff it into an affordable package that sheds the bells and whistles. Spec highlights include RIM’s slimmest Curve design ever, GPS and Wi-Fi support, 5-megapixel cameras and the BlackBerry 7 OS. ”These new models will build on the incredible success of the BlackBerry Curve line and further expand the largest global launch of BlackBerry smartphones in our history,” said RIM Co-CEO Mike Lazaridis in a statement. “The new BlackBerry Curve smartphones are absolutely stunning and offer a significant performance upgrade with an unmatched mobile social experience for the millions of feature phone users in the market as well as our existing Curve customers.” RIM’s new Curve line will launch this month in Canada and beginning next month in additional markets. RIM’s full press release follows below.
RIM Introduces New BlackBerry Curve Smartphones
Sleek, fast and easy-to-use smartphones feature next-generation BlackBerry 7 OS and deliver smooth social experiences wherever you go
Waterloo, ON – Research In Motion (RIM) (NASDAQ: RIMM; TSX: RIM) today announced three new BlackBerry® smartphones featuring the BlackBerry® 7 Operating System (OS). The all-new BlackBerry® Curve™ 9350, BlackBerry® Curve™ 9360 and BlackBerry Curve™ 9370 smartphone are exciting additions to the popular BlackBerry Curve series.
These new models are designed to address a large and important segment of the global mobile phone market where customers are looking to upgrade their existing feature phone or existing BlackBerry Curve with an affordable, easy-to-use, full-featured and socially-connected smartphone.
“These new models will build on the incredible success of the BlackBerry Curve line and further expand the largest global launch of BlackBerry smartphones in our history,” said Mike Lazaridis, President and Co-CEO at Research In Motion. “The new BlackBerry Curve smartphones are absolutely stunning and offer a significant performance upgrade with an unmatched mobile social experience for the millions of feature phone users in the market as well as our existing Curve customers.”
Everything You NeedThe new BlackBerry Curve smartphones are slim, stylish and simply beautiful. They are ergonomically designed with a comfortable and iconic keyboard for fast, accurate typing and an optical trackpad for easy, one-handed navigation. GPS and Wi-Fi® support are also included, as well as a 5MP camera with flash and video recording so that memories can be captured and instantly shared on social networks. The microSD/SDHC slot supports up to 32 GB memory cards for additional media storage.
In addition to supporting the new BlackBerry 7 OS, the new BlackBerry Curve smartphones feature a range of powerful hardware enhancements including upgraded processors, displays and memory, and built-in support for NFC (Near Field Communications), a new technology that is enabling many exciting capabilities, including the ability to pair accessories or read SmartPoster tags with a simple tap of the smartphone.
Next-Generation BlackBerry 7 OSBlackBerry 7 introduces a next generation BlackBerry browser which combines the dramatically improved performance of the advanced WebKit browser engine with the hardware enhancements in the new BlackBerry Curve smartphones to deliver a significantly faster, more fluid web browsing experience. Additional enhancements to this next generation BlackBerry browser have also enabled smoother navigation and optimized HTML5 performance for incredible gaming and video experiences.
BlackBerry 7 OS also includes a number of other pre-loaded applications and integrated functionality for increased productivity and collaboration right out of the box. The Premium version of Documents To Go is included free of charge, offering users powerful document editing features as well as a native PDF document viewer. BlackBerry® Protect is also pre-loaded*, offering customers the peace of mind that personal data can be backed up and secured in the cloud. With BlackBerry Protect, users can locate their misplaced BlackBerry smartphone using GPS or remotely turn up the ringer for an audible notification if their handset is close-by. BlackBerry® Balance (announced May 2, 2011) is integrated in BlackBerry 7, allowing users to enjoy the full BlackBerry smartphone experience for both work and personal purposes without compromising the IT department’s need for advanced security and IT controls. The popular universal search capability has also been enhanced with support for voice-activated search, so users can now simply speak to begin searching their device and the web for information.
Best In Class Communications and Social ExperiencesThe next generation BlackBerry Curve smartphones deliver the world’s best mobile communications and social experiences with a highly refined and integrated suite of phone, email, messaging and social apps to keep users connected and productive throughout the day.
The latest release of BBM™ (BlackBerry® Messenger) is pre-loaded and now extends the real time BBM experience to a range of other apps, such as Foursquare, allowing users to easily interact with each other from within the ‘BBM connected’ app (see separate announcement on July 28, 2011).
The updated Social Feeds (2.0) app has been extended to capture updates from media, podcasts, and favorites all in one consolidated view. The new Facebook® for BlackBerry smartphones (2.0) app introduces features like Facebook chat and BBM integration that makes it easier for users to connect with their Facebook friends in real time utilizing push notifications. Twitter for BlackBerry smartphones also delivers a deeply integrated experience including use of real time push notifications and Social Feeds integration.

Availability
The BlackBerry Curve 9350, 9360 and 9370 smartphones are expected to be available from carriers in Canada this month and from other carriers around the world beginning in September. Availability dates and pricing for specific devices from specific carriers will be announced in conjunction with RIM’s partners.

Monday, August 22, 2011

Android, iOS gain U.S. market share in Q2 while BlackBerry slides, NPD says


Android’s lead in the U.S. smartphone market was extended further in the second quarter of 2011 according to leading market research firm The NPD Group. The firm on Monday released its second-quarter Mobile Phone Track report, which shows that Android devices accounted for 52% of smartphones sold in the U.S. last quarter. Apple’s iOS-powered iPhone showed slight gains in the second quarter as well, representing 29% of smartphone sales. RIM’s BlackBerry platform slid in the quarter according to NPD, dropping to an 11% share of the U.S. smartphone market, while Windows Phone 7, Windows Mobile and webOS sales were flat at less than 5% each. NPD also believes that Google’s planned acquisition of Motorola Mobility will not deter its major Android partners, as some have speculated. “Google’s acquisition of Motorola shifts the balance of power in the handset-patent conflict between Google and its operating system competitors,” said Ross Rubin, The NPD Group’s executive director of industry analysis, in a statement. “Android’s momentum has made for a large pie that is attractive to Motorola’s Android rivals, even if they must compete with their operating system developer.” NPD’s full press release follows below.

The NPD Group: As Android Solidifies Lead, Google Acquisition Has Potential to Revitalize Flagging Motorola
Patent-rich handset pioneer’s second quarter share fell to gains by Apple, Samsung and LG.
PORT WASHINGTON, NEW YORK, August TK, 2011 – According to The NPD Group, a leading market research company, Google’s Android operating system (OS) continued to dominate U.S. smartphone market share, accounting for 52 percent of units sold in the second quarter (Q2) of 2011. Like Android, Apple’s iPhone OS (iOS) experienced slight quarterly gain rising to 29 percent in Q2; however, BlackBerry OS share fell to 11 percent, as Windows Phone 7, Windows Mobile, and webOS held steady at less than five percent of the market each.
“Google’s acquisition of Motorola shifts the balance of power in the handset-patent conflict between Google and its operating system competitors,” said Ross Rubin, executive director of industry analysis for NPD. “Android’s momentum has made for a large pie that is attractive to Motorola’s Android rivals, even if they must compete with their operating system developer.”
Motorola’s overall mobile phone market share declined 3 percentage points, from 12 percent in Q2 2010 to 9 percent in Q2 2011. The company’s share of the smartphone market also declined from 15 percent to 12 percent. Motorola’s year-over-year unit share of Android OS sales halved from 44 percent in Q2 of last year to 22 percent in Q2 of 2011, as Samsung and LG both experienced substantial gains.
“Much as it did in the feature phone market in the RAZR era, Motorola is experiencing increased competition from Samsung and LG in the smartphone market,” Rubin said. “Closer ties to the heart of Android can help inspire new paths to differentiation.”
Growing opportunity in prepaid smartphones
Beyond the four largest national carriers, Motorola can also make up ground in the rapidly growing pre-paid smartphone market. Based on the latest information from NPD’s “Mobile Phone Track,” one in five new handsets acquired in Q2 was on a prepaid plan, and carriers offering prepaid mobile phones continued to grow their smartphone portfolios. In Q2 2010 just 8 percent of prepaid phones were smartphones, but in Q2 2011 that number jumped to 22 percent.
“Android is also leading the charge in the rapidly growing prepaid smartphone market,” Rubin said. “This was once a key segment for Motorola that the company has an opportunity to reclaim as prepaid carriers build their smartphone portfolios.”

Sunday, August 21, 2011

Sprint’s BlackBerry Bold 9930 just $199.99 online


Sprint has never been known to follow convention. While other carriers are milking heavy data users for as much as possible, for example, Sprint is standing strong and maintaining its unlimited data plans for as long as possible. Another example: Sprint announced the BlackBerry Bold 9930 last week, stating that it would charge customers $249.99 on contract for the device. The nation’s No. 3 carrier made the device available on Sunday as promised, but the phone is actually priced lower online than Sprint announced; just $199.99 will score you RIM’s latest flagship smartphone from Sprint’s online shop. Oddly, the same $200 can also land you an old Bold 9650 if you have an aversion to touchscreens and gorgeous hardware. Sprint’s Torch 9850 launched at the promised $149.99, but we can’t imagine opting for it over the Bold 9930 for just $50 more. Interested parties may want to hit the read link quickly in case Sprint has a change of heart.
Thanks, CJ
Read

Thursday, August 18, 2011

HTC ChaCha vs BlackBerry Bold 9780


We see how the HTC ChaCha stacks up against RIM’s BlackBerry Bold 9870

We see if HTC’s ChaCha can take on RIM at its own game against the BlackBerry Bold 9870.
Form:
HTC ChaCha - 114.4 x 64.6 x 10.7mm, 120g
BlackBerry Bold 9780 - 109 x 60 x 14mm, 122g
The BlackBerry Bold looks pretty tidy to us, it’s very elegantly put together with the square-keyed Qwerty being compact but not clumsy.
It’s a lot more angular than many BlackBerry phones but we think it works rather well with the ‘Messenger’ phone aesthetic and compliments the broad design.
We’re not fans of the ChaCha’s design which appears very spaced out and almost cartoonish.
The upper part of the phone is angled away from the lower part where the keyboard sits, lending a very odd look to things.
Combine this with rounded off corners and round keys with a lot of space between and you have something which looks totally alien, and not in a good way.
Winner – BlackBerry Bold 9780
Display:
The Bold 9780 is a more old school model BlackBerry, rather than using a touchscreen it has a regular TFT, while control is handled by the keyboard and optical track-pad.
The screen measures 2.4-inches and boasts a resolution of 480 x 360 pixels. Picture quality is high with a pixel density of 245 pixels-per-inch (ppi).
Conversely the HTC ChaCha rocks a fully functioning capacitive TFT touchscreen with multi-touch.
It’s the larger of the two at 2.6-inches but both the resolution and pixel density are lower than on the BlackBerry at 480 x 320 pixels and 221ppi.
The ChaCha’s screen is made from reinforced Gorilla Glass while the in-built accelerometer sensor and HTC Sense 2.1 user interface (UI) support screen orientation features.
The BlackBerry’s sharper picture and higher resolution is preferable if you’re mainly interested in image clarity.
However, the ChaCha offers the versatility of a touchscreen and for some that may be a higher priority, particularly as the differences in resolution and pixel density are not exactly vast.
Winner – Draw
Storage:
The BlackBerry Bold 9780 has 256MB of internal storage along with 512MB of RAM.
It might not sound like much, but it’s a bit better off than the ChaCha which has only 512MB each of both RAM and ROM, but no dedicated internal space as the BlackBerry does.
Both phones support Micro SD cards up to 32GB and each comes with a 2GB card as part of the standard package.
We have to side with the BlackBerry here as it is offering the same RAM as the ChaCha but a much more diverse and usable storage setup overall.
Winner – BlackBerry Bold 9780
Processor:
RIM’s BlackBerry uses a Marvell Tavor PXA930 processor clocked at 624MHz while the ChaCha uses a faster 800MHz Qualcomm MSM7227.
The BlackBerry’s processor is very well optimised to deliver smooth performance.
However, despite this the Qualcomm powered ChaCha will still easily offer a much quicker user experience and the extra clock speed makes it our choice this round.
Winner – HTC ChaCha

Operating System:
The Bold 9780 runs RIM’s own BlackBerry OS 6. It may not be as bright and shiny as the brand new version 7, but it represents a significant step forward for the system with a lot of newly added features bringing it right up to date.
The most standout addition is a drop-down notifications tab similar to the one found on the Android operating system. The user interface also now boasts pop-up context menus which is useful to say the least.On top of this there’s a new ‘search from homescreen’ feature adding yet more usability to the system.
All the native BlackBerry apps have been totally rebuilt from the ground up for this version making them much faster, more responsive and with greater intuitiveness. The Webkit browser in particular has received plenty of attention with Flash, HTML5 and Javascript support along with general performance improvements and tabbed browsing functionality.
Against this you have the Android based ChaCha, running the 2.3 Gingerbread build of Google’s popular system.
It’s popular with good reason, the interface is not only responsive and intuitive but offers plenty of scope for personalisation. The updated touch keyboard is a welcome change and a joy to use compared to its precursor.
Multi-tasking is handled very well indeed, and not only on performance, but functionally too, Gingerbread brings a whole new set of management tools to help you get the most out of your apps.
You can see exactly what system resources your apps are consuming and if consumption gets excessive Gingerbread will take the initiative and shut down the offending app itself.
We’d say these systems are on a more or less equal footing in terms of the performance and features on offer.
Winner - Draw
Camera:
Both handsets feature 5-megapixel primary cameras at 2592x1944 pixels. The ChaCha also has a secondary VGA camera.
Each phone features autofocus and LED flash but there are a few further functions individual to both handsets.
The ChaCha has geo-tagging, face detection and video capture at D1 quality (720x480 pixels) with video call support.
RIM’s BlackBerry distinguishes itself with image stabilisation, digital zoom and a continuous autofocus mode for video capture.
These phones are pretty much evenly matched on cameras and we’d be quite happy with either.
Winner - Draw
Final Thoughts:
The HTC ChaCha is certainly the more powerful competitor but looking at the overall picture we think the BlackBerry has a lot more to offer.
The main area it excels is in storage which is a much better setup than that of the HTC, in most other areas they are fairly equal, but for better storage and much nicer looks we’d take the hit in processor performance as the BlackBerry is well optimised anyway.

HTC ChaCha vs Blackberry Curve 8520


We see if HTC’s ChaCha can be outdone by the BlackBerry Curve 8520

A budget messenger comparison between the old BlackBerry Curve 8520 and the new HTC ChaCha
Form:
HTC ChaCha - 114.4 x 64.6 x 10.7mm, 120g
BlackBerry Curve 8520 - 109 x 60 x 13.9mm, 106g
The BlackBerry Curve is a remarkably compact and lightweight device, although the ChaCha is the thinner of the two phones.
The compactness lends itself very well to the otherwise fairly standardised BlackBerry design.
With the screen above the fixed Qwerty keyboard and a fairly short, squat frame BlackBerry’s can sometimes have a tendency to look a little odd, but when the whole thing is downsized it works very well.
The keyboard is nicely laid out with neat and interesting lozenge shaped keys.
The ChaCha hasn’t managed to win us over with its unconventional looks.
At bare basics it may be quite similar to the BlackBerry with a small screen on top of a fixed Qwerty keyboard, but the similarities really do end there.
It looks pretty bland to us and there’s an over-abundance of curves from the bodywork to the keys. It’s also very oddly shaped with the screen at an angle from the keyboard creating a slightly curved profile.
‘Neat’ is probably the best summary of the BlackBerry where ‘peculiar’ (and not in a good way) would be more apt for the ChaCha.
Winner BlackBerry Curve 8520
Display:
The BlackBerry 8520 is not a touchscreen smartphone, instead it houses a 2.4-inch TFT screen while control is delegated to the optical tack-pad and Qwerty keyboard input.
The screen resolution comes in at 320 x 240 and pixel density is 151 pixels-per-inch (ppi).
HTC’s ChaCha may have a similarly petite 2.6-inch screen but here it’s a fully-fledged touchscreen complete with multi-touch input.
An accelerometer sensor and the HTC Sense 2.1 user interface (UI) grants screen rotation. Meanwhile the glass used for the display is of the toughened ‘Gorilla’ variety.
Screen resolution and picture quality on the ChaCha is much higher than its rival at 480 x 320 pixels and 221ppi.
The ChaCha is holding all the cards here with its larger, crisper touchscreen.
Winner – HTC ChaCha
Storage:
Both phones are fairly minimal on storage but this fits with their performance level and design as primarily ‘Messenger’ type phones.
These are not high-end portable gaming machines which you can stuff full of apps.
ChaCha users get the better end of the bargain with 512MB of RAM and the same again in ROM, while the BlackBerry has only 128MB of the former and 256MB of the latter.
Luckily both are well provided for when it comes to external card support, each allowing up to 32GB of data to be stored on Micro SD format.
Notably the ChaCha comes with a 2GB card as standard.
Relying only on RAM, ROM and card storage isn’t always ideal but again we’re not dealing with flashy, top-of-the line smartphones here, between the two the ChaCha certainly offers more.
Winner – HTC ChaCha

Processor:
These handsets are moderately powered by sub-1GHz single core setups.
The BlackBerry runs a Marvell 512MHz processor against the ChaCha’s more impressive 800 MHz Qualcomm MSM7227.
Considering the kind of tasks these types of phone normally get used for either option is more than adequate.
However, having an extra 288MHz to play with is going to make a noticeable difference in performance and gives the ChaCha the edge here.
Winner – HTC ChaCha
Operating System:
The ChaCha runs Google’s Android operating system, version 2.3 Gingerbread.
With Gingerbread you get some of the best smartphone multi-tasking available. Not only is performance faster than before but a handy set of tools lets you keep track of system resources - you can see how apps are using them and generally what your phone is up to.
You’ve got much more control than before, but if you want to take a hands-off approach Gingerbread will keep tabs on things itself and power off any apps which get too greedy.
Overall system performance for tasks and navigation is a step up and the interface is more intuitive and smooth than previous builds.
The touch keyboard has been given some love and is now a pleasure to use rather than a chore.
The BlackBerry Curve released with BlackBerry OS version 4.2 but now has access to an updated version 5.
It’s yet to reach the lofty heights of version 6 or the latest build version 7 but it’s still a serviceable system to use with plenty of useful features.
In particular the browser has been tweaked to support Google Gears and can now stream video, there’s also extended support on a number of formats.
Overall the browsing performance is much faster too but sadly lacks added usability such as tabs.
System performance in general has been ramped up from previous versions, including memory optimisation measures to make things a bit more responsive. There’s also a new file manager interface to help you stay organised.
The Maps app, RIM’s location based service, is now twice as fast, scroll and zoom lag has also been remedied.
Version 5 introduces an application switcher function, activated by holding down the menu key, this mimics the functionality provided in newer versions of the system and on newer phone models.
BlackBerry OS 5 is nice and it’s certainly and improvement over 4.2 but it is nowhere near as fluid or feature-rich as subsequent builds on some of the more recent RIM handsets.
Most notably for this comparison though is it pales when compared to Android Gingerbread’s capabilities.
Winner – HTC ChaCha
Camera:
Clearly RIM had other priorities when developing the Curve 8520’s camera, as it’s fitted with a fairly rudimentary 2-megapixel primary at 1600x1200 pixels.
It features digital zoom and video capture at QVGA quality but that’s about it.
HTC’s ChaCha is a bit more advanced in this area with a 5-megapixel primary at 2592 x 1944 pixels, it also sports a secondary VGA camera.
Features include autofocus, LED flash, geo-tagging and face detection.
Video capture is D1 quality (720x480 pixels) and the phone supports video calling.
The ChaCha easily wins this round with a much more attractive camera setup.
Winner – HTC ChaCha
Final Thoughts:
The BlackBerry may look nicer but in terms of technical competence the ChaCha runs rings around it.
It’s just a shame HTC has gone with such a quirky and unappealing design because apart from this rather glaring factor the ChaCha is a pretty good phone.
Processing power, storage capacity, screen picture quality and the camera are all better on the ChaCha.

Monday, August 15, 2011

BlackBerry Bold 9900 vs HTC ChaCha


RIM’s BlackBerry Bold 9900 takes on HTC’s ChaCha

We see how well HTC’s ChaCha competes against BlackBerry’s latest Bold 9900.
Form:
We just can’t think of anything nice to say about the HTC ChaCha’s visuals. It’s difficult to imagine what HTC’s design department was thinking to be honest.
It’s got a peculiar design - the lower part of the phone, where the fixed Qwerty keyboard is housed, juts forward at a funny angle from the upper part, where the screen sits.
The result is this oddly broken profile which reminds us of those dedicated, battery driven handheld games devices you used to be able to buy from Woolworths, back when it existed.
The BlackBerry Bold 9900 looks more or less like a conventional BlackBerry handset with its smallish screen, fixed Qwerty keyboard and broad yet smooth appearance.
With the BlackBerry the keys are more squared-off and chiselled and they’re arranged in a compact way which looks appealing.
Conversely on the ChaCha the keys are rounded and spaced out giving off a cartoonish vibe which doesn’t sit well with us.
We have to say the BlackBerry is a much more attractive handset than the ChaCha.
Winner – BlackBerry Bold 9900
Display:
‘Messenger’ style phones usually have touchscreens on the smaller side and these two are no exception, RIM’s BlackBerry Bold has the larger choice here at 2.8-inches while the HTC ChaCha’s is 2.6-inches.
They’re both TFT capacitive displays, the ChaCha clocks in at a 480x320 resolution and a pixel density of 221 pixels-per-inch (ppi).
The BlackBerry’s vital statistics are higher at 640x480 pixels and 285ppi respectively.
HTC’s device uses Gorilla Glass for its screen and is preloaded with the HTC Sense 2.1 user interface (UI).
Both handsets feature accelerometer sensors and multi-touch input, the BlackBerry Bold also has an optical track-pad.
The BlackBerry’s larger screen with a higher resolution and pixel density means it will give better picture quality and be more visible too.
Winner – BlackBerry Bold 9900
Storage:
RIM has upped the stakes with the storage crammed into this BlackBerry, a comparatively hefty 8GB of internal capacity is on offer, along with 768MB of RAM.
The HTC ChaCha doesn’t do so well here with only 512MB of RAM and 512MB of ROM built in.
That’s not going to cater much to any serious storage needs and, against the BlackBerry, seems like quite a paltry provision.
External support on each allows Micro SD cards up to 32GB, the ChaCha includes a 2GB card as part of the package.
You’re going to be pretty much relying on SD card storage with the ChaCha.
An easy win for the BlackBerry this round.
Winner – BlackBerry Bold 9900
Processor:
Like many similar handsets in this category the HTC ChaCha is a moderately well powered device equipped with a single core Qualcomm MSM7227 processor clocked at 800 MHz.
The BlackBerry Bold, however, has decided to get a little more adventurous, it’s still single core, but at 1.2GHz this Qualcomm 8655 processor on the Snapdragon chipset can deliver the goods in double quick time.
An Adreno 205 graphics processing unit (GPU) also helps move things along at a steady pace.
The BlackBerry easily outpaces the HTC ChaCha on processor performance making it our choice here.
Winner – BlackBerry Bold 9900
Operating System:
The new Bold runs, as might be expected, RIM’s own BlackBerry OS 7, while HTC’s ChaCha uses Google’s prolific Android Gingerbread 2.3.
RIM has consistently been improving system performance on its system and version 7 is as quick as it’s been so far.
Whether you’re running single apps, multi-tasking or browsing you’ve got a fast and responsive setup here.
The browser specifically has been updated with a specially tailored Javascript compiler, complete with Flash support. There’s also some additional new functionality with pinch zoom and a voice activated search feature.
Near Field Communication is starting to get more attention and RIM has been quick to get in on the game by enabling support on the Bold.
Possible applications include paying for your shopping with a swipe of your phone across a sensor or quickly exchanging information between devices simply by “bumping” them together.
Another area of hardware support newly included in this build is a capability for HD video capture. Considering the Bold can capture video in 720p HD this is a very timely and thoughtful addition.
The BlackBerry Balance suite is a new feature designed to allow business users to keep their work and private lives separated, while remaining easily accessible.
Android 2.3 Gingerbread is about to be replaced with Android Ice Cream Sandwich (4.0), but for a more low-key messenger phone it’s still more than adequate.
Multi-tasking is where Android excels and Gingerbread particularly with its improved performance and advanced management suite.
On Gingerbread you have a much greater degree of control over your apps than in previous builds, as well as much more information on what they’re up to.
The interface has been refined and is much smoother to navigate. You’ve also got an updated version of Android’s touch keyboard which, unlike previous versions, is very responsive and easy to use.
Both systems are very rewarding to use with some great features and good performance. We’re calling this one a draw.
Winner - Draw
Camera:
Both phones are fitted with 5-megapixel primaries at 2592x1944 pixels resolution.
They also each have autofocus, LED flash, geo-tagging and face detection features.
Additionally the BlackBerry comes with digital zoom, image stabilisation and editing effects.
The ChaCha captures video at D1 quality and supports video calling, it also sports a secondary VGA camera.
The BlackBerry enjoys 720p HD video capture but has no secondary camera.
Overall the BlackBerry has more features and captures video at a better quality.
Winner – BlackBerry Bold 9900
Final Thoughts:
Well, the ChaCha got thrashed by the BlackBerry Bold 9900, pure and simple.
RIM’s new generation Bold performs considerably better in virtually all areas, only drawing on the operating system because Android Gingerbread is pretty good, howeve, it’s not enough to save HTC’s challenge

Saturday, August 13, 2011

BlackBerry Bold 9900 vs Nokia E6


We see how Nokia’s E6 compares to the BlackBerry Bold 9900 in the ‘messenger phone’ stakes.

Can Nokia take on RIM at its own game? We find out as the BlackBerry Bold 9900 squares up to the Nokia E6.
Form:
BlackBerry Bold 9900 - 115 x 66 x 10.5mm, 130g
Nokia E6 - 115.5 x 59 x 10.5 mm, 133g
Visually both phones follow the same design ethos, inspired by RIM’s original BlackBerry devices.
In each case a relatively small screen sits atop a fixed Qwerty keyboard in the middle of a squat, broad handset design.
The difference comes where the BlackBerry sports more softened and curved edges, while the Nokia has a much harder and more chiselled feel.
Although they are more or less the same in overall size, the Nokia has slightly narrower proportions and a smaller screen. The keyboard also appears more condensed and all these elements combine to give a slightly more slender appearance.
Both phones are equally light and thin.
We prefer the Nokia’s angled and tapered lines to the BlackBerry’s curves.
Winner – Nokia E6
Storage:
Both handsets offer a good amount of on-board space, with 8GB of internal capacity in each.
They also both support Micro SD cards up to 32GB.
For processor support the BlackBerry comes with 768MB of RAM against the Nokia’s less impressive 256 MB. The Nokia also has 1GB of ROM.
A pretty equal setup overall but the RAM arrangement on the BlackBerry makes a difference and is our preferred choice.
Winner – BlackBerry Bold 9900
Display:
These phones use similar touchscreens. Each is a TFT capacitive screen with a resolution of 640x480 pixels.
The BlackBerry has a 2.8-inch display with a pixel density of 285 pixels-per-inch (ppi) and featuring multi-touch input, an accelerometer sensor and an optical track-pad.
Against this the Nokia’s smaller 2.4-inch screen comes in at 325ppi for a much sharper picture. It’s also made from toughened Gorilla Glass and has the usual accelerometer and multi-touch features.
We’d normally prefer the Bold’s larger screen but the picture quality on the Nokia is very high indeed.
Winner – Nokia E6

Processor:
The BlackBerry Bold is a reasonably powerful machine with a single core 1.2GHz Qualcomm 8655 running under the Snapdragon chipset.
Additional graphical punch is provided by an Adreno 205 graphics processing unit (GPU).
The Nokia E6’s processor seems to be modelled after older BlackBerry’s, running as it does a single core ARM 11 processor at 680MHz.
The graphics setup is quite a mouthful - it runs a 2D/3D Graphics HW Accelerator featuring OpenVG1.1 and OpenGL ES 2.0 architectures.
Of course this setup doesn’t have anywhere near the same capability as the BlackBerry Bold, meaning RIM’s device emerges the victor this round.
Winner – BlackBerry Bold 9900
Operating System:
On the Nokia E6 we have Symbian Anna, the latest update of Nokia’s own Symbian^3 operating system. The BlackBerry Bold 9900, meanwhile, runs RIM’s BlackBerry OS 7.
BlackBerry OS 7’s interface has changed very little in appearance from the previous build, but behind the scenes plenty of work has been done.
System performance on the whole has been ramped up so that both navigating the system and performing tasks is slicker than it ever has been.
This extends to browsing too. BlackBerry’s Webkit based browser has been enhanced and can bring your pages up rapidly with a custom Javascript compiler and Flash support powering things.
Not only this but pinch zoom and a voice activated search function have been added to make things a little more convenient.
RIM has included some forward-thinking tech support in this build with Near Field Communication (NFC).
This means that when stores start enabling remote payment through your phone you’ll be able to take full advantage.
Funcionality doesn’t end there. The technology also has potential to allow “bump” transfer of data between devices and to be used as a reader for promotion stickers and the like.
HD video capture support is also a new addition and it’s just as well as the Bold 9900’s camera has this capability in its hardware.
Lastly there’s the BlackBerry Balance suite, which RIM has included to enable users to separate personal and business information on their phones.
Symbian^3 has been updated several times since its release and the functionality has gradually improved as a result.
Multi-touch support as well as improved graphics capability, multi-tasking and location-based services have all been added over time to make a much more rounded system.
The Symbian Anna update improves things further.
In Symbian^3 there was no support for touch scrolling - users had to use a rather fiddly scroll bar on the side of the screen. This has been rectified in Anna and a simple swipe up or down will allow you to navigate freely.
The native browser has also been enhanced to offer much faster performance than previous builds.
In addition, Nokia has included a new portrait-oriented Qwerty touch keyboard, designed for one-handed typing.
Finally, there's the new inclusion of a split screen mode for message threads that allows users to view a conversation and type a response at the same time.
While Symbian has been improved it is still behind many other systems on the market, the functionality is not as extensive as its competitors.
BlackBerry OS 7, on the other hand, has come on leaps and bounds to give users a much more complete system.
Winner – BlackBerry Bold 9900
Camera:
RIM’s new model Bold comes equipped with a 5-megapixel primary camera at a resolution of 2592x1944 pixels.
Video capture is 720p HD and there’s no secondary camera.
Features include autofocus, LED flash, geo-tagging, face detection, image stabilisation, digital zoom and editing effects.
Nokia has opted for something a bit brawnier, the E6 houses an 8-megapixel primary at 3264x2448 pixels.
It’s fixed focus but has a dual LED flash, geo-tagging, face detection, digital zoom, exposure control and a self-timer.
Video capture is 720p HD and the phone supports video calling. There’s also a secondary VGA camera.
The Nokia E6 has a higher quality and more feature-packed camera, winning it this round.
Winner – Nokia E6
Final Thoughts:
The Nokia E6 has some areas where it excels: the camera is top-of-the range, the display is great and the visual design shows typical Nokia flair.
However, the BlackBerry Bold 9900 has more substance in our view, with a much better processor and storage setup and a much more functional and intuitive operating system.

Tuesday, May 3, 2011

No Android Apps or Flash Support for Blackberry 7



Most of us remember the hype surrounding RIM’s BlackBerry Playbook and how it’s QNX OS would allow users to load Android apps for use on the tablet. I know how excited some of my developer friends were about this possible new prospect. Given the similarities between Android’s Dalvik VM and RIM’s Java based system it seemed like an easy transition. However, the Playbook was eventually released without the touted Android capabilities to many people’s dismay.
Fast forward to today where RIM announced the details of their new BlackBerry 7 OS and although many hoped it would offer some core features from the QNX operating system (Android app compatibility?) – it fell short. RIM officially confirmed today that there will be no Android apps (or even Flash for that matter) on the new soon to be released BlackBerry 7 OS update.
However, Android apps aren’t entirely off the table just yet. According to RIM’s vice president of handheld software product management, Andrew Bocking, the new QNX OS may soon come to handhelds, the only problem is they will need to feature a dual-core processor which RIM doesn’t offer at the moment. He did mention they are hard at work on a more portable cellphone version of the OS and although nowhere near ready you can expect to hear more about it later this year.
What do you guys think at the possibility of a BlackBerry phone running Android apps? Is this something you would be interested in? Or will it be shunned like an Android red-headed step child?
 

Monday, May 2, 2011

BlackBerry Enterprise Solution coming to Android and iOS




Research In Motion (RIM) is making a bold move in that it plans on brining the BlackBerry Enterprise Solution (BES) to Android and iOS later this year.
Pending completion of the acquisition, Ubitexx’s ubi-Suite software for device management will be integrated with the management and security controls of BlackBerry Enterprise Server and BlackBerry Enterprise Server Express. This will support Android and iOs devices and tablets. This is in response to demand from enterprise customers for multi-platform support for BES.
This cannot be a surprise to anyone. RIM has already announced that the Playbook will support Android apps. This smartphone war is now between Google and Apple and RIM needed to do something before they lose more enterprise share. You know the old saying, “If you can’t beat them, join them.” That is exactly what RIM is doing and I applaud them for doing this instead of just sitting back and watching the demise.
Full press release after the break

Press Release Source: Research In Motion On Monday May 2, 2011, 8:30 am EDT
WATERLOO, ONTARIO–(Marketwire – 05/02/11) – Research In Motion (RIM) (NASDAQ:RIMMNews)(TSX:RIMNews) is announcing today plans for a multi-platform BlackBerry Enterprise Solution for managing and securing mobile devices for enterprises and government organizations. The solution will make available the market-leading management, security and controls of BlackBerry® Enterprise Server and BlackBerry® Enterprise Server Express for BlackBerry® devices plus, through RIM’s pending acquisition of ubitexx (creator of the ubi-Suite device management solution), the solution is expected to incorporate secure device management for Android and iOS based devices and tablets, all managed from a single web-based console.
“The multi-platform BlackBerry Enterprise Solution is designed to address a growing market and respond to requests from enterprise customers who want a secure multi-platform device management solution from a company that already delivers the gold standard for enterprise mobility,” said Peter Devenyi, Vice President, Communications Platform Group at Research In Motion. “We recognize the opportunity to continue leading in the enterprise market by providing customers with a common platform to help simplify the management of a variety of mobile devices.”
The single web-based console is being designed to provide IT administrators with a simple and efficient way to distribute software and manage policies, inventory, security and services for BlackBerry devices, as well as other mobile devices. IT administrators will be able to manage devices over-the-air, including activating devices, distributing software and applications, locking or wiping devices, enforcing and resetting device passwords, setting IT policies, and managing optional mobile applications for end users. Certain features are expected to remain exclusive to BlackBerry devices because such capabilities are built into the design of a device’s operating system. Examples include RIM’s industry-leading push technology, network and data usage efficiency, behind-the-firewall access to enterprise applications and systems, and many of the over 550 IT policies available through BlackBerry Enterprise Server. The recently-released BlackBerry® Balance™ technology (see separate press release issued today), which supports the use of a single smartphone for both work and personal purposes without compromising the security of corporate content or the privacy of personal content, will also remain exclusive to BlackBerry devices.
Overall, as is largely understood in the enterprise market today, organizations can expect a range of security, manageability and controls depending on different device platform capabilities, with some devices further limited by the design of their operating system.
The multi-platform BlackBerry Enterprise Solution will be comprised of optional architectural components based on the configuration of an organization’s mobile deployment and their operational needs. Optional components will include BlackBerry Enterprise Server and BlackBerry Enterprise Server Express for BlackBerry devices, and a separate, secure device management server for Android and iOS devices (based on the foundation of ubi-Suite from ubitexx). It will be possible to deploy multiple components in a virtualized environment on a single server.
Note: Registration for a product preview of the ubitexx solution is open today at www.ubitexx.com/preview.
The multi-platform BlackBerry Enterprise Solution is planned for general availability later this year.
About Research In Motion (RIM)
Research In Motion is a leading designer, manufacturer and marketer of innovative wireless solutions for the worldwide mobile communications market. Through the development of integrated hardware, software and services that support multiple wireless network standards, RIM provides platforms and solutions for seamless access to time-sensitive information including email, phone, SMS messaging, Internet and intranet-based applications. RIM technology also enables a broad array of third party developers and manufacturers to enhance their products and services with wireless connectivity. RIM’s portfolio of award-winning products, services and embedded technologies are used by thousands of organizations around the world and include the BlackBerry wireless platform, the RIM Wireless Handheld™ product line, software development tools, radio-modems and software/hardware licensing agreements. Founded in 1984 and based in Waterloo, Ontario, RIM operates offices in North America, Europe and Asia Pacific. RIM is listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market (NASDAQ:RIMMNews) and the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX:RIMNews). For more information, visitwww.rim.com or www.blackberry.com.
Forward-looking statements in this news release are made pursuant to the “safe harbor” provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. When used herein, words such as “intend” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions made by and information available to Research In Motion Limited. Investors are cautioned that such forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements include, without limitation, possible product defects and product liability, risks related to international sales and potential foreign currency exchange fluctuations, the initiation or outcome of litigation, acts or potential acts of terrorism, international conflicts, significant fluctuations of quarterly operating results, changes in Canadian and foreign laws and regulations, continued acceptance of RIM’s products, increased levels of competition, technological changes and the successful development of new products, dependence on third-party networks to provide services, dependence on intellectual property rights, and other risks and factors detailed from time to time in RIM’s periodic reports filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission, and other regulatory authorities. RIM has no intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
The BlackBerry and RIM families of related marks, images and symbols are the exclusive properties and trademarks of Research In Motion Limited. RIM, Research In Motion and BlackBerry are registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and may be pending or registered in other countries. All other brands, product names, company names, trademarks and service marks are the properties of their respective owners. RIM assumes no obligations or liability and makes no representation, warranty, endorsement or guarantee in relation to any aspect of any third party products or services.

Contacts:

Media Contact:
Brodeur Partners (PR Agency for RIM)
Marisa Conway
212-336-7509
mconway@brodeur.com
Investor Contact:
RIM Investor Relations
519-888-7465
investor_relations@rim.com