This video is part one of a multi-part video series detailing the messaging capabilities of the BlackBerry Storm2.
Author Archives: Aaron Baker
Verizon updates BlackBerry Pearl Flip 8230 OS
If you’re the proud owner of a BlackBerry Pearl Flip 8230, you’ve probably felt a bit left out as of late. After all, the launch of the BlackBerry Storm2, Motorola DROID, HTC Droid Eris, and BlackBerry Curve 8530 have taken most (if not all) of the limelight away from RIM’s first clamshell BlackBerry device. Not to worry though, as Verizon hasn’t completely forgotten about you: effective today, OS 4.6.1.309 is available for the device.
Granted, it’s not OS 5.0 just yet, but it’s an improvement over previous versions. If you notice any changes, be sure to let us know in the forums! As always, download at your own risk.
Via: CrackBerry
Nimbuzz comes to BlackBerry
I received the official press statement last night, and immediately went to download the program. I’ve been incredibly pleased so far. Instead of opening up Google Talk, AIM, ICQ, and the like each and every time, Nimbuzz supports several clients, so you can use one application to open them all.
The program includes support for the following: fellow Nimbuzz users, Windows Live Messenger, Skype, Yahoo!, Facebook, Google Talk/Orkut, AIM, MySpace, ICQ, studiVZ, schulerVZ, GaduGadu, Giovani, Hyves, Jabber, Gayet, and Azbuz (though the latter three are listed as “currently not available” on my device). That’s quite the number of instant messaging clients and social networking mediums, and if you’re like me, you’ve probably never heard of half of them.
The program is free to download at Nimbuzz or the BlackBerry App World and can be had for any BlackBerry device running OS 4.6 or higher. The full press release can be found after the break.
Leaked version of UberTwitter brings aesthetic improvements
Sarah Palin’s not the only person that’s going “Rogue,” thanks to UberTwitter’s new 0.932 beta release. Fortunately for us, the company has decided to move past developers and release the beta (known as “rogue”) version to general users. Besides the build being more aesthetically pleasing, UberTwitter’s Paul McDonald had the following to say:
“We have been working very hard to provide you with a ‘knock-out’ release for Beta-6. Unfortunately, the first pre-release of this version was shared widely beyond our group of testers, and to compound this, they didn’t properly post the correct BlackBerry OS builds. We recognize that many of our users unfortunately downloaded this version, most with the wrong OS build. In order to rectify this problem, we are putting the first pre-release out there for anyone that wants to download it and give it a try. We have builds for 4.5, 4.6, 4.7, and 5.0. Please understand that this is not a finished product, the UI, colors, and some inner workings are not complete, but do work. The final release is still a few weeks away, but I hope that you agree that it will be well worth the wait!”
Via: CrackBerry
Rumor: BlackBerry devices 50% off at AT&T starting tomorrow?
Be sure to chalk this one up in the rumor category for now, but there are rumblings about AT&T discounting BlackBerry devices by 50 percent beginning tomorrow. 50 percent! You’d better believe I’ll be headed back to the AT&T store, considering I bought a Bold 9700 four days ago. The deal requires a new activation and the purchase of a data plan (since AT&T requires that anyway, I don’t really see that as a roadblock). Will the rumor come to fruition? We’ll see tomorrow…
Confirmed: It’s been confirmed by several that the deal is in fact going on. I’ll update with more information as I get it!
Update: Since the device has dropped to $99.99 after mail-in rebate, AT&T credited my account $100 to reflect the price difference.
AT&T BlackBerry Bold 9700 coming with microSD card?
Last weekend, I picked up a BlackBerry Bold 9700 at AT&T to play around with (due to my PR loaner being a bit behind schedule). Despite the box clearly stating that no microSD card is installed in the device (see picture above), my unit came pre-loaded with a 2 GB card. Has anyone else noticed the same?
BlackBerry Curve 8520 units showing up at AT&T
Sure, the press release said that the device would land at AT&T in “the coming weeks,” but it looks as if the unit is already showing up in retail stores. Unfortunately, it’s still notoriously absent from AT&T’s website (both on the consumer and business side), so it looks like we’re still a few days out. Still, it’s worth calling up your local store(s) to see if they’re in stock.
Via: CrackBerry
Case-Mate launches Fuel Case for BlackBerry Tour
Adding to the Fuel Case lineup, Case-Mate has launched a unit designed specifically for the BlackBerry Tour. Perfect for the on-the-go traveler, the unit offers 7 additional hours of talk time, 20 hours of standby time, and a rotating belt clip. The unit retails for $79.99, but can be had for $74.95 here. For those that travel frequently (or if you’re like me, for those that forget to charge their phone every now and again), it’s a must-have accessory.
Via: CrackBerry
OS 5.0.0.371 spotted for BlackBerry Bold 9700
Nothing like starting a relatively boring Tuesday morning with an OS leak, right? If you’re the proud owner of a BlackBerry Bold 9700, OS 5.0.0.371 is on the internet. Details are sparse regarding the build, so if you’re brave enough to give it a go, let us know what improvements .371 offers.
The OS leak can be downloaded here. As always, installation is done at your own risk. For tips, help, or more, check out our forums.
Via: IntoMobile
Colorware comes to BlackBerry Bold 9700
Adding to its portfolio, Colorware is now offering the BlackBerry Bold 9700 for customization. The Colorware option starts at $159 for the parts (either as a “do-it-yourself kit or with installation), and rises to $849 for a customized device directly from the company. Personally, I’m a fan of the stock look of the Bold, so I’m not interested. That being said, who’s planning to drop the $159 in order to separate your BlackBerry from the rest of the crop (get it)?
New video of the BlackBerry Pearl 9100 (Stratus) surfaces
Thanks to Salomondrin, we’re getting a closer look at the BlackBerry Pearl 9100, also known as the Striker/Stratus. As I mentioned previously, looks just like a miniaturized version of the BlackBerry Storm2. With a high-resolution screen to the likes of the Bold 9700 and Tour, I’m getting more and more excited about this device (I was always a Pearl and SureType fan). The design cues give the device an added level of professionalism, and needless to say, reported flash memory of 256 MB makes me very happy.
Via: Salomondrin
DonTouch app keeps people away from your phone
In the spirit of Thanksgiving (or any other holiday for that matter), nosy families, and such, I present DonTouch. Ever been in that situation where the family member tries to access your phone and read your messages without your knowledge? It’s a near-perfect solution. Simply activate the app, and when it detects any movement, the alarm is sounded.
DonTouch is available for the Storm and Storm2, and can be found here.
Via: CrackBerry
BlackBerry Curve 8520 dummy units hit AT&T stores
As seen above, BlackBerry Curve 8520 dummy units are arriving in the stores. Now, can get get some of the real units to land at AT&T, it would be perfect.
Fandango coming to BlackBerry
I love Fandango, both online and via the various mobile devices that support it presently. But what about BlackBerry users – have they forgotten about us? Word on the street (er, word on the Fandango page) is that it’s coming to the BlackBerry platform soon. Though availability remains unknown, the application will allow you to check showtimes, watch trailers, buy tickets, and “more” from the device.
Via: CrackBerry
TwiXtreme hits the scene as the latest Twitter app
Ubertwitter too old for you? Not into Socialscope yet? Don’t want to pay for TweetGenius? TwiXtreme, available as a free download in the BlackBerry App World, is a great alternative to the relatively small list of (useful) Twitter applications we’ve had as of late. Sporting a clean, organized appearance, I’m impressed. It’s nice to see a decent, ad-free app that doesn’t cost anything.
Stay tuned for a full review, but in the meantime, get your download on! And let me know what you think of it in the forums.
Game: Revball for BlackBerry Storm
BlackBerry Media Sync 3.0 hits the scene, offers new features
Despite my love for all things BlackBerry, I’ll admit that RIM has always been a bit behind in the media department. Though not quite up to the media-centric alternatives, the launch of BlackBerry Media Sync 3.0 certainly helps. Reports are streaming in claiming that 3.0 is more reliable than past versions, and new
New features include:
PC to BlackBerry sync:
- 2 way synchronization, Add folders for syncing with option to optimize pictures for device
- Smart memory management: optimizes photo size, allowing for storage of more pictures on device
BlackBerry to PC Import:
- Media Sync alerts users when new pictures are available to import when device is connected to PC (via pop-up on the pictures tab)
Highlights of Music sync with BlackBerry Media Sync:
- Sync Options include specific playlists or random music
- iTunes® & Windows Media Player® compatible
- Supports all media capable BlackBerry smartphones
If you’re running Windows XP or OS 10.5.5 (or later), Hit blackberry.com/mediasync to download.
Via: BGR
Visto Themes announces new themes for the Bold 9700
Want your Bold to look like OS X? How about Android? Or what about a sleek, classy desktop? Thanks to Visto Themes, you can trick out your new device with a completely customizable theme – home screen, icons, menus, and all. Personally, I’m a fan of the stock OS 5.0, but it provides another option for those who aren’t.
All three of the themes can be had for $7 at the CrackBerry App Store.
Via: CrackBerry
BlackBerry Bold 9700 lands at AT&T
After months of waiting and a week at T-Mobile, the Bold 9700 can be had at AT&T. For $199.99 after a $100 mail-in rebate (new two-year agreement required), it’s a fantastic upgrade to the Bold 9000.
On the fence? Can’t decide whether to get it or not? Hit the forums for advice!
Stop Turning! offers Storm owners the ability to lock screen orientation
This might be the best app since sliced bread. Really. Let’s paint the picture: you’re laying in bed, using your phone. Naturally, your head is on the pillow, but when you turn the device to accommodate, the accelerometer turns with you, switching the device from portrait to landscape mode. There are few things worse (in the tech world) than laying in bed and having to hold your device a certain way so the accelerometer doesn’t kick in. Usually, I end up having to twist my arm to keep the device in portrait mode while keeping my head on the pillow.
For those of us plagued by the issue, Stop Turning! is here to help. Supporting OS 4.7 and 5.0 on the Storm and the Storm2, Stop Turning! allows you to lock your screen in one orientation – and keep it there. The application is available at the sale price of $1.49 in CrackBerry’s App Store. Hurry – the offer expires on November 22nd.
Via: CrackBerry