BlackBerry Cool

Official Tumblr BlackBerry App Now Available

2010-03-17T20:53:46Z

Tumblr finally have their official BlackBerry app available for download and so far it looks really good. The app looks a lot like the iPhone version and includes all the features you would want out of a Tumblr app including video. I personally really enjoy Tumblr for quick posting links and featuring media, and a lot of companies use it for their company blog.

Download the Tumblr app OTA.

Also, remember to use the QR code method for fast downloading.

[Hat tip to our pal LouTreize]

LaterDude Pro Updated to Version 3.0.2 With New Features

2010-03-17T20:35:50Z

Fabian let us know that LaterDude Pro has been updated to version 3.0.2 with some general improvements to the app as well as new features. The app is very useful in that it allows you to set reminders for yourself to call, email or SMS someone. What makes the app even more handy, is that it ties in nicely with the call log, address book and other core BlackBerry functions.

More information available for LaterDude Pro in the BlackBerryCool Store. For those who already own LaterDude Pro, this is a free update.

You can also become a fan of LaterDude Pro on Facebook.

Changes in the version include:

When you create a new Calendar Event or Task via LaterDude Pro, you get to use the standard input screen for creating a new PIM Entry. Through that you can simply edit all the necessary info for each Event you create.
The reminder time for the Event you set up is always set to 1 min. Through that it does not interfere with any calendars you sync your device with and you don’t have to change the default reminder time like you had to do in the previous versions.
A Tell-A-Friend screen is now included, allowing you to spread the word about LaterDude Pro.
The standard length for an event created with LaterDude Pro is now 10 min.
The subject of an email can be set as the subject of the Calendar Event or Task.
When you set an event from the Messages, it does not automatically preselect the ‘email’ keyword.
You can add a custom keyword (next to the Call, SMS, eMail, Contact and Meet keywords).
The day of the week will get displayed in the Dialog where you can quick-select the time and date for each Event or Task.
Many other small bugs have been fixed.

United States Air Force BlackBerrys Get Security Update

2010-03-17T19:24:54Z

The United States Air Force has over 30,000 BlackBerrys in their inventory, accounting for over 50 percent of the Department of Defense’s total BlackBerry deployment. During the month of March, the Air Force will be implementing security updates to their BlackBerrys in order to better protect the organization from cyber threats.

The following configuration changes will be implemented within the month of March:

Users will no longer have the capability to send or receive text messages with attached photos or videos. Text-only messaging will remain enabled.
If a device is being synched and its software is out-of-date, a “Force Load” message will appear. The user will only have one opportunity to decline updating the software. Any subsequent syncing attempts will render the device inoperative until the software is updated.
Users will not be able to download additional applications to their devices over the Internet.
Most Bluetooth functionality will be disabled. The only Bluetooth feature that will continue to function will be linking the device to the smart card reader cradle.
Users will no longer be able to connect their smart card reader cradle to their computers.

Could it be that the recent stories of corporate espionage have the DoD spooked on potential cyber threats?

RIM Hint BlackBerry Messenger News Coming Soon

2010-03-17T16:30:23Z

RIM have posted a message on their Facebook page saying that some exciting things are coming for BlackBerry Messenger in the days (and weeks) ahead. They’re asking everyone to double check that they’re running the latest version of BBM (5.0.0.57) and we’re guessing whatever the news is will require the latest version. If I had to guess what the news will be, I’m going to guess it isn’t a major update to BBM, as we would have heard something by now. The news is likely a promotion or marketing campaign that you’ll be sort of interested in but not really.

CanadianJobForce Web Portal App for BlackBerry

2010-03-17T15:57:19Z

Our good friend @BambiBlue tipped us off that CanadianJobForce.com now has a BlackBerry app. The app looks to be a web portal, which is a shame because a native app is so much easier to use. In any case, if you’re looking for a job and you have a BlackBerry, this app will help you find some good prospects while on the go.

For more information, see the CanadianJobForce app in App World.

BlackBerry Push Service Now Available to All Developers

2010-03-17T15:37:20Z

RIM have announced that they are now offering the BlackBerry Push Service to all BlackBerry developers. This news seems strange in that I thought the Push APIs were already available, but apparently they are now fully public.

The BlackBerry Push Service has two options: BlackBerry Push Essentials and BlackBerry Push Plus. BlackBerry Push Essentials is a free service that developers can incorporate into their applications and allows them to push content to their customers immediately. BlackBerry Push Plus has a free and paid tier that provides developers with notification that their push has been delivered. If a content provider needs to get information to someone, they can tell if the target device has received the push.

For more information, see RIM’s site.

Official BlackBerry OS 5.0.0.545 for the BlackBerry Bold 9700

2010-03-17T15:18:17Z

Vodafone UK have dropped the official OS 5.0.0.545, but you can put it on your 9700 regardless of you carrier by following these instructions on how to upgrade your OS.

Download OS 5.0.0.545 for the BlackBerry Bold 9700

Xobni for BlackBerry and Xobni One Now Available for Download

2010-03-16T22:37:06Z

Xobni for BlackBerry is officially out of beta testing and available to all. Xobni (inbox backwards) are well known for their popular Microsoft Outlook add-in that allows you to manage your email and contacts, as well as discover more about those you work with. Xobni for BlackBerry automatically logs profile data about anyone you have emailed, and gives you quick access to their contact information.

Alongside the Xobni for BlackBerry announcement is a new feature called Xobni One, a service that connects your Outlook and Xobni for BlackBerry. This feature adds cloud functionality to the Xobni service, allowing you to get the same rich profile data but for anyone you have ever emailed, regardless of when the app was installed.

Combining the two applications, Xobni for BlackBerry gives you:

Email addresses for everyone with whom you communicate.
Automatic phone number extraction.
Access to contacts using Xobni within the email compose screen or in standalone application.
Prioritized contacts using Xobni Rank, which lists contacts by how often you communicate with them versus alphabetically.
Saving of Xobni profiles in the event of hard drive crash or lost phone.
One-click access to Facebook and LinkedIn profiles, including photos.
Access to recent SMS, phone calls and emails exchanged, and shared appointments.
Access to a shared network of people.
Ability to send your calendar availability to all contacts.

Xobni Mobile is currently compatible with the BlackBerry Tour, Curve 8900, Bold and Storm.

Download Xobni for BlackBerry from xobni.com/mobile and expect it to appear in BlackBerry App World shortly.

Xobni for BlackBerry and Xobni One are priced as follows:

Xobni Mobile standalone app for BlackBerry: $9.99 one-time fee
Xobni Mobile with Xobni One: $6.99 one-time fee + $3.99 recurring monthly fee
One-year of Xobni Mobile on BlackBerry with Xobni One: $39.90/year

For those with Xobni for Enterprise, you should expect the mobile product to be fully integrated later this year.

Slacker Launches SXSW Cedar Street Courtyard Party Station

2010-03-16T21:18:52Z

Slacker and FILTER Magazine have announced a free radio station featuring music from the Cedar Street Courtyard – the most attended day party at SXSW. The station includes artists such as Miike Snow, BRMC, Dr. Dog and Frightened Rabbit.

To listen, go to slacker.com/filter or head over to the spotlight section in the BlackBerry app.

More information about the Slacker app for BlackBerry in the BlackBerryCool Store.

Interview with a Rogers Sales Associate About Selling BlackBerry, iPhone and Smartphones

2010-03-17T15:13:40Z

I recently caught up with an old friend, RogersDude69, and had a long conversation about retail and smartphones. I sent him a few questions over email to get some answers about how retailers market and sell BlackBerrys.

Tell me about smartphone sales where you work, which platform is being pushed the hardest right now?

I work at Rogers Plus, the corporate retail store. Our current lineup of phones are:

iPhone 3G 8GB, iPhone 3GS 16GB, iPhone 3GS 32GB
BlackBerry 8220, BlackBerry 8520, BlackBerry 9000, BlackBerry 9700
HTC Dream, HTC Magic+, Samsung Spica
Sony Ericsson Xperia X1
Nokia N86

Our particular store sells more BlackBerry devices than iPhone devices, because there is a larger selection, and the iPhone in particular has been the same device for nearly the last 2 years.

Internally, we have a big push to sell the Sony Ericsson Xperia X1, most likely because the X10 is coming out soon. There are sales incentives to sell the device even more so than our regular commission.

What were customer demands for consumer smartphones when iPhone (3G) launched, are they different now?

Most consumers in Canada who wanted a phone that surfed the web and got email went with a BlackBerry. However, the plans themselves had a small limit on the amount of bandwidth that was allowed. For $40 you could get 25 MB of data. I would sell a couple BlackBerry devices a week at my store, usually to someone who wore a suit and tie.

When the iPhone 3G launched in Canada, that data plans were boosted from 25 MB to 500 MB, for $15 less. Since data plans have become cheaper, more and more people have decided to take the plunge and buy a smartphone.

Younger women, younger men, older women, older men, what are these groups looking for in a smartphone, what are their purchasing motivations? What are their smartphone preferences?

Younger Women – BlackBerry Messenger
Younger Men – Cool Applications
Older Women – Ease of Use and email
Older Men – Work Related applications

Not long ago, apps for phones were sold through a carrier deck, now it’s shifting towards a manufacturer store model, how does this effect smartphone sales?

I think it has definitely increased the sales of smartphones themselves, as the platform stores are more advertised by the manufacturers, rather than the carriers. Generally, it makes people have more control over their devices, and complain about something else besides the price of ringtones.

Are consumers interested in software?

Most consumers aren’t, in my experience. The only consumers that are interested in software, are what the industry calls the prosumer. You know, the early adopters and the ones that spend lots and lots of money on their toys.

What is your favorite BlackBerry to sell someone on right now and why?

My favorite is the BlackBerry 9700, since it’s got a much better battery life than the 9000, and it’s a 3G phone, so you can download stuff really quick. More importantly, it doesn’t have a trackball, but a trackpad, which doesn’t break down hardware-wise. Other than that, I also push the BlackBerry 8520, because it’s pretty cheap but still makes me more commission.

If someone doesn’t know what kind of smartphone they want, what factors lead you sell them on a BlackBerry over an iPhone?

The first question I ask people is: Would you be using your device primarily to communicate with people, or would you be using the device to surf the web and entertain for yourself?

That usually cuts the line between iPhone and BlackBerry. When people say communication, I push BlackBerry. When they say surf the web, I tell them iPhone. Other that, I sell BlackBerry because I have more models to choose from and it’s a Canadian Company.

Do you deal much with returns? Which makes and models are returned the most and why?

Currently, for a smartphone it is the LG EVE. Overall, it has to do with the people who are buying smartphones. There is a lot of ignorance in this industry and sometimes a user simply doesn’t understand how to use a smartphone. I’ve seen users who make the mistake of typing in their gmail password for the BlackBerry lock screen until the phone locks and their data is wiped. I also see users typing their BlackBerry password into their Gmail and want to return the phone because “their email is broken.” People will also return the BlackBerry when there are smudges on the screen, or if the frame of it seems to separate slightly (some BB 8520s do this). What surprises me, is that in general people don’t return the iPhone.

Which apps do you talk about when the topic of BlackBerry applications comes up?

The first application I talk about is BlackBerry App World. It’s strange that the store for the BlackBerry isn’t pre-loaded on the devices but I will often take the time to download it onto people’s devices for them. The next is BlackBerry Messenger, followed by Windows Live Messenger or Facebook. Games aren’t usually talked about in store.

Which devices sell the most accessories on signup?

When I sell the iPhone, I immediately grab a rubber case made by iSkin, and I force people to buy it because the iPhone does not take a fall. I’ve seen about a hundred iPhones with broken screens. If that phone falls on it’s side, the screen cracks and the rubber case helps tremendously. When selling a BlackBerry, I tend to sell a lot of car chargers.

What is your favorite BlackBerry application of the moment and why?

My application that I use the most is Magmic’s Sudoku (which is free and preinstalled), Magmic’s Daily NYT Crosswords (which is a subscription), BlackBerry Messenger, Facebook, BlackBerry’s official Twitter app (I am awesome) and Foursquare.

What is your favorite iPhone application?

The Rogers My Account application, which isn’t pre-loaded on the iPhone, but tells you your minutes, text messages, and data usage before your bill comes out. It’s also important to note that I don’t use the iPhone, I just tell my customers that they should download that application.

Which platform most often leads to people coming in and talking about it, but not buying anything?

It’s probably the Android operating system. People come in, ask about it, and then leave. I often have people come in and ask about BlackBerry and iPhone, but they usually leave the store having purchased one. The questions I get are always about the ability to do something, such as check their email, and the answer is always “yes”. People still don’t realize what a smartphone is and what it can do.

Contest Reminder: Zenprise WES Giveaway

2010-03-16T17:33:56Z

I’ve spoken to a few companies that are cutting back their conference attendance given a general recession and tightening of resources. I thought I’d remind everyone that Zenprise are running a contest right now for a free pass to WES 2010. We’ll remind readers a couple more times leading up to the conference in case you missed it, because we think every company in the BlackBerry space should attend this event. Head over to their Facebook page facebook.com/zenprise and share your smartphone support story.

Quickly Develop and Deploy Enterprise Applications with Seregon MAP

2010-03-16T17:05:22Z

Seregon let us know that they have released version 3.1 of their Mobile Application Platform (MAP). MAP allows you to build enterprise applications in a timely manner, by taking advantage of their MAP Design Studio for importing databases, web services and building drag and drop GUIs. Once the application is complete, Seregon allows you to deploy OTA to a variety of devices.

Seregon’s solution includes a native “thick client” which is installed on the BlackBerry, where it automatically configures to each BlackBerry OS & screen size / resolution. This architecture allows the user to work offline, integrate with device hardware, and limit airtime and data usage. Devices connect to back-end systems through their MAP DataServer, which acts as a synchronization engine. MAP also incorporates the LUA scripting language for developers that want to write code within MAP.

For more information about Seregon, you check them out at Seregon.com or on Twitter with @SeregonMAP.

Tyfone’s SideTap Card Allows Payments by microSD Card

2010-03-16T16:20:04Z

The news that MasterCard and the major carriers have teamed up via Zoompass has got the industry excited about the idea that smartphone payments are fast approaching. The newest player on the scene is Tyfone’s SideTap card. The card can function as a payment device, allowing the user to scan their smartphone over a PayPass system. The product is said to hit the market in the second half of 2010, with trials slated to begin mid year.

Ditto SMS Group Chat App for BlackBerry by Hive Mind Technologies

2010-03-16T15:12:36Z

Hive Mind Technologies have launched a new app called Ditto for BlackBerry. The app allows a user to send SMS messages to a group of users, acting as a text message chat server. When you SMS chat using Ditto, you can control how and if messages are sent to the group. Ditto allows you to hide the identity of members by replacing the members name with the word “anonymous” when it relays their messages to other members of the conversation. Ditto also allows you to omit a member’s identity completely. When a member is configured this way, the relayed message appears to originate from the member running Ditto.

Ditto also features:

Control the ability of members to speak and listen to other members of the conversation.
Listen mode can be set to “Deaf” or “Listener”.
When set to “Deaf” that member will not receive messages from other members of the group, excluding the member running Ditto.
When set to “Listener” that member will receive all messages sent from other members in the conversation.
Speak mode can be set to “Speaker” or “Mute”.
When set to “Speaker” that member’s messages will be relayed to all other members of the conversation.
When set to “Mute” that member’s messages will not be relayed to all other members of the conversation, excluding the member running Ditto.

This is a cool app for people who use SMS a lot to chat with friends. Personally, I stick to BBM because a lot of my friends are also on BlackBerry, but there is always a few who are on feature phones.

Ditto is available in App World for $2.99.

Improving the Gaming Experience on BlackBerry

2010-03-16T22:56:14Z

Games, they pass the time and fill in the cracks. In the last few years, with the processing and memory increases in mobile phones, casual gaming on-the-go has increased. Consumers love their Peggle and want to take it with them everywhere and BlackBerry users are no different. For proof, take a look at the BlackBerry App World Top Paid list, where over a third of the content are games. Here are a few ways RIM can help the BlackBerry gaming industry:

Fix The Payment System

It has been said before, but BlackBerry users shouldn’t have to rely on PayPal as the company has a tendency to freeze accounts. Also, gamers are impulsive and the platform should cater to conspicuous consumption. I love the Apple App Store’s One-Click buying. It’s seamless and has siphoned more than $25 out of my pockets in the last two months.

Get the Touchscreen Right

Time for a good capacitive touch screen. SurePress was a good idea as a response to user complaints that typing on a touchscreen was inefficient, but it just isn’t practical for gaming applications. If the iPhone is any indication of what to expect, well-done capacitive touch encourages innovation and more apps to boast about in your store. Top-sellers in the Apple App Store like Angry Birds or Crush the Castle would do great on the BlackBerry platform, but RIM have yet to make the platform appealing to these developers.

Deal with the Physical Keyboard

I know, I know, Blackberry die-hards love their physical keyboards, and I’m not about to suggest we do away with them, but if RIM wants to get back in the game, it needs to give its users more screen real estate. Squinting to see my characters is no way to play. For those who say physical typing is easier, the tiny keys and trackpad/ball on most Blackberrys (especially the 9700) are a big source of gaming frustration in games where the pressure is on (I’m looking at you Bejeweled).

The Blackberry Storm and Storm 2 are a good start. The new slider aims to give us the best of both worlds. Still, will developers now need to develop for both a touchscreen and a physical keyboard, further complicating control schemes. It’s important to finalize the BlackBerry touchscreen design, and let developers know that the doors are open to build games that will sell.

Here’s what RIM’s done right:

The app economy is there and doing relatively well. In February, we posted a report from app analytics company Distimo that said Blackberry games are among the highest-priced. While a typical game on the Apple App Store runs a little more than $2, an App World game goes for $4.60. The reasons for the price being higher could be attributed to higher development costs and a higher App World minimum. It would be good to see these prices come down by addressing the root causes of these high prices. Speaking of which, can any developers out there provide an estimate of what a Blackberry game costs to develop relative to the iPhone.

RIM has been surprisingly open. Though not completely deregulated (nudity in themes has been banned by RIM), RIM has done a good job letting market-demand rule, unlike Apple.

Multitasking makes games better. On an iPhone, I have to quit out of a game to check Twitter, but because my Blackberry supports background tasks, I can play Magmic’s Texas Hold ‘Em King 3 and keep my social media life up-to-date.

RIM is working on new APIs continually. Finally, RIM has taken one of its killer apps, BBM, and given developers the ability to potentially turn it into a gaming platform. If developers take advantage of these APIs, and RIM expands the platform’s capabilities, gaming on the Blackberry could take a huge turn for the better. Imagine BBM as your friends list a la Xbox Live. You would be able to see what games your friends are playing, invite them to play by clicking their names, all centralized in one app.

As RIM are under increasing pressure to cater to the consumer market, it will become more important for developers to be able to make compelling games, and consumers to be able to easily buy these games.

-Jacob Nahin

Opera Put the Final Touches on Opera Mini 5 for BlackBerry

2010-03-16T14:29:21Z

Today Opera have released the final version of Opera Mini 5 and Opera Mobile 10. The focus of this release is on delivering a unified look and feel, as well as improving on features such as Speed Dial, password manager and tabbed browsing. When we last wrote about Opera Mini, users were reporting that the build wasn’t ready for the 9700 and there were still a couple bugs on the Storm. When you download the latest version, let us know how it’s running on your device.

To try it for yourself, go to m.opera.com to download it to your BlackBerry.

Elecite Premium BlackBerry Themes on Sale for $0.99

2010-03-15T22:33:50Z

Elecite are running a sale today in the BlackBerryCool Store featuring 10 of their premium themes at 99 cents. Some of the top themes such as Ace and Halcyon are as cheap as they’ll ever get so feel free to head into the store and browse for yourself.

Check out the big Elecite premium theme sale in the BlackBerryCool Store.

BIS 3.0 Roundup: Gmail Sync Feature Still Unconfirmed

2010-03-15T20:40:33Z

There is a lot going around about the recent announcement of BIS 3.0 and some confusion about whether it will include a Gmail 2-way sync. The first users to get the update were in South-East Asia, with EMEA (Europe, Middle East, Africa) following. Users in these regions have been reporting a lack of Gmail sync leaving North American users wondering if it’s going to happen. The official announcement on the support forums recognizes the existence of Gmail sync via an updated plugin, but this doesn’t seem to be available. The RIM knowledgebase mentions the Gmail plugin, but fails to acknowledge the sync features. This could just be a blunder on the part of whoever wrote the article. Overall, it seems we’re going to see the plugin, but perhaps not until version 3.1. We’ll have to wait for the 3.0 upgrade and see.

Another addition to BIS 3.0 includes a carrier portal. The carrier portal tool is a new BlackBerry email admin tool designed to meet the requests solicited from wireless service providers regarding the BIS. Some of the features include:

A completely new user interface providing clearer, easier access to information and functions within the tool.
The introduction of ‘Groups’ for managing support staff who utilize the system.
Enhanced permissions capabilities for administrators to more easily define which features should be available to their support staff users.
Link to BlackBerry Technical Solutions Center (BTSC).
Expanded Browser support
Additional subscriber search options.

This isn’t of any real value to the end user, and for now we’re going to stay focused on whether Gmail sync is coming. Let’s hope it’s on the way and the reports we’re seeing don’t apply to North America (not that EMEA and SE Asian users don’t matter).

CEO Zeebu Mobile Dan Gagliardi on Business News Network

2010-03-15T19:39:59Z

In a segment that BNN calls “BlackBerry for Babies”, Zeebu Mobile’s Dan Gagliardi talks about their product BabyGo, and its success in App World. While the product is available for iPhone, it was interesting to see the focus remain on BlackBerry. According to IDC Canada, Zeebu Mobile Inc. is one of the top 10 software companies to watch.

Watch Zeebu Mobile on Business News Network.
Check out Zeebu’s free app BabyGo in App World.
If you’re a fan of the free app, you’ll definitely want to check out the premium version Super Baby GO!

Slow Day for BlackBerry News: Editorial Roundup

2010-03-15T17:17:44Z

Today is a bit of a slow news day in the BlackBerry world and slow days are almost always accompanied by lots of fluff editorial pieces. I know every site is guilty of the odd nonsense piece, and BlackBerryCool is no different, but I just found today had some particularly bad editorials. Here are a few:

The tech-savvy life of a BlackBerry guru
Blackberry: Revolutionising the smartphone world
Confessions of an iPhone Chick: BlackBerry envy
King PIN: Jay Electronica’s Obsession With Blackberry Messenger

I’m sure there are more. Feel free to drop links in the comments.

ATM Hunter – Free ATM Finder App by MasterCard

2010-03-15T14:57:09Z

ATM Hunter by MasterCard lets you find ATMs around the world using GPS on your BlackBerry. You can enter an address, or simply search using your current location. Once you search for an ATM, the app will provide you with the location of the ATM, along with the type of location it’s at (store, gas station etc.), as well as the distance. You can also filter searches for ATM features such as: drive through, 24hr service, wheelchair accessible, and more.

The app has mixed reviews on App World, as some users reported that the GPS feature didn’t work. I found this to be the case myself, which is a shame because I’ve been looking for an app like this. It’s free on App World so give it a shot for yourself and let us know.

Guitar Studio Now Available on App World and More Devices

2010-03-15T04:51:08Z

Guitar Studio by LCAMobile lets guitar players load Tab and Chodpro files on their BlackBerry and play them hands-free. The app comes with a 30,000+ chord library with fingering, built-in MP3 player and recorder and a tone based tuner. This is definitely a unique app in the BlackBerry world and LCAMobile is saying their next app is going to be killer. Looking forward to seeing what they come up with.

The app is now available on App World, and they have a longer list of compatible devices as well.

Private Address Book App BlackBook Gets Major Update

2010-03-15T01:06:53Z

MBLware have released a major update to their BlackBook app. BlackBook is just what you think it is: a hidden contact list on your BlackBerry that keeps certain communications private. By typing in a custom key combination, users can access their private BlackBook, and even if your BlackBerry is compromised, certain communications remain hidden.

New Features include:

Save Unknown SMS – By blocking inbound SMS with the firewall, and enabling this option, users can now easily hide all SMS messages while still saving the message from unknown contacts.

Extended SMS – With extended SMS there’s no need to worry about filling up that 140 character limit. Messages will be delivered in multiple parts.

Stealth Mode – Send all calls straight to voicemail and avoid those awkward ‘Who was that?!’ moments.

Vibration Alerts – When enabled, one long vibration will notify you when a new message arrives.

Auto-Close – Don’t pull a Tiger. BlackBook will automatically close when the backlight turns off.

Email Enhancements – Send to multiple recipients, CC / BCC support for email and Outbound Email Attachments.

Pre-existing features include:

Completely Hidden Address Book – Selected contacts will be hidden from prying eyes. Only after entering your secret key-combo will the app, and its contents become accessible.

Fake Caller-ID Names – Customizable caller-id names will display for incoming calls. The love of your life will be the none-the-wiser when “Grandma” is calling to check-in.

Custom Filtering – With user defined filtering, you can decide the extent at which BlackBook hides activities on the phone. Enable or disable filtering of phone calls, sms, pin, and email to your liking.

Importing, and Exporting – Choose who’s calls and conversations you want to keep hidden on your phone. You can import, or export contacts from the native Address Book with ease.

A complete change-log is available from MBLware.

More information about BlackBook available in the BlackBerryCool Store. If you’re upgrading the app, remember that you must export your contacts prior to installing the new version, or risk overwriting them.

Thoughts on the BlackBerry Slider: Carrier vs Developer Needs

2010-03-15T16:16:53Z

We’ve been seeing a lot of pictures of the upcoming BlackBerry Slider and I’ve had a few conversations with developers I’d like to share. My primary concern about the BlackBerry Slider is that the impetus for its design comes from the carriers and what’s good for them, rather than the developers and what will truly benefit the platform.

While there is a lot we don’t know about the BlackBerry Slider, we do know that it incorporates several different input methods. These input methods include:

Trackpad
Touchscreen
Physical keyboard
Virtual keyboard (landscape mode)

Consider something as simple as navigation. With a trackpad device, you know a user will only be navigating horizontally and vertically (and possibly diagonally). With a touchscreen, you have to accommodate for the fact that the user will navigate anywhere. Combining the two, as well as having both types of keyboards, you’re creating a plethora of new instances for bugs and unpredicted entry.

Another development hassle is the possibility that SurePress is dead. This rumor has been circulating and it’s hard to believe it’s true. RIM has a lot of money invested in SurePress and abandoning the technology, even for one device, would be surprising to say the least. That being said, if they do abandon SurePress, developers now have to accommodate for yet another input method. Software ported to the SurePress Storm, now needs to be redeveloped to avoid the ‘highlight then select’ instance and replace it with simply ’select’.

Complicating the platform is a step in the wrong direction. Developing for BlackBerry needs to get easier, and by adding more input methods, you’re doing just the opposite. So why is RIM going in this direction? If I had to guess, I would say it’s a carrier decision. RIM has historically done anything the carrier wants, because they value the relationship, and believe that if the carrier is happy more devices get sold and in the end RIM wins. This logic is sound but assumes the carrier knows how best to sell smartphones. Apple made the incredibly ballsy move of believing they knew better than the carrier, and it has done very well for them.

The BlackBerry Slider will definitely be a big seller, because it likely has a lot of carrier marketing data behind it that says users are looking for a touchscreen slider. I’m sure whatever carrier is requesting it (almost certainly Verizon), believes it will give them an offering their competition (AT&T) doesn’t have (namely an iPhone with a keyboard). On the other hand, developers now have a new device to add to their porting list, and it will be a long time after this device launches before we start seeing decent software available for it.

BlackBerry Theme Developer? Try the Open Icon Library

2010-03-14T21:34:16Z

If your a BlackBerry theme developer, you may already know about this, but Wikimedia Commons has a helpful Open Icon Library called Crystal Clear by Everaldo Coelho. The icons are licensed under the GNU Lesser General Public License, which I’m pretty sure means they’re fair game for themes. While they may not be theme directly from the Wiki, a slight modification to many of these icons would make them ideal for a BlackBerry theme.

BlackBerry Cool Roundup for the Week of March 8th

2010-03-15T14:28:00Z

In terms of news I’d say it was a slow week for the BlackBerry Nation. On the bright side, there were some great apps that launched in both App World and the BlackBerryCool store. SmrtGuard-Free launched in App World, as well as Rove’s Mobile SSH for BlackBerry. Foursquare was also updated to version 1.7.0 with visual enhancements and tips features, and you can find them on App World now too.

Also worth mentioning is that BlackBerryCool currently has SIX contests on the go where winners haven’t yet been chosen. I’m going to choose winners for some of the older contests before Monday morning so make sure you’re entered in all six.

Apps

SmrtGuard-Free on BlackBerry App World
MobileQs Trivia Game for BlackBerry With Expansion Pack
PrivacyStar Call Blocking Software Now Available in Canada
VQ CarFinder App Exceeds 100,000 Downloads
AddOnis Updated and Now Available for OS 5 Devices
Download the Latest Version of App World 1.1.0.33
Stitcher Now Available for the BlackBerry Storm2 9550 and 9520
Free IM Aggregator Nimbuzz for Blackberry Updated
Shazam Updated With 7Digital Purchasing and Music Videos
Verizon Demonstrates Skype Mobile on YouTube
UberTwitter Version 0.970 Available for Download
Zoompass App Now Preloaded on Bell Mobility Devices
RIM Announce Official Twitter and LinkedIn Apps Almost Here
TripIt Now Available for Google Apps Users
Privus Mobile Launches Enterprise Caller ID Screening Integration
Foursquare Updated to Version 1.7.0 – Now on App World!
Rove Mobile SSH for BlackBerry Now Available in App World
Formula 1 Timing App for BlackBerry with Circuit Data and Schedules

Themes

Explicit Premium BlackBerry Theme from Hedone

News

BIS 3.0 Upgrade Scheduled for EMEA March 14th
Saudi Arabia Regulators Request Access to BlackBerry Messenger
Time Warner Cable to Help Decongest AT&T and Verizon Networks
T-Mobile Spokesperson Responds to WiFi BlackBerry Data Outage
Latest comScore Data Shows BlackBerry Dominates US Market
Jim Balsillie Announces RIM to Produce BlackBerrys in Brazil
Verizon Will Require Customers With BES Express to Upgrade Data Package
BlackBerry Bold 9650 Launch Rumored in May 2010

Other

Jerry Seinfeld Talks About BlackBerry People on Letterman
Microsoft Office Document Editing Software for BlackBerry Reviewed
Magmic’s Product Manager Jeff Bacon on BlackBerry, iPhone and NYT Brand
Comparing Smartphone Keyboards Highlights Bold Advantages and Storm2 Disadvantages
$200K BlackBerry Curve 8900 with 4,150 Diamonds Wrapped in 18K Gold
The Artist Behind the LEGO BlackBerry at the BlackBerry Developer Conference

Contests

Tether Celebrating Anniversary With Smartphone and App Giveaway
Feature Packed VersaTool All-in-One App With 20 Giveaways
Storm Picture Editing and Drawing App Radical Draw With 10 Free Copies
Win a Free Trip to WES 2010 with Zenprise!
BugMe Notes and Alarms Updated with 10 Free Copies
Slacker Valentine’s Day Radio Channels with Subscription Giveaways

BlackBerry Bold 9650 Launch Rumored in May 2010

2010-03-12T18:03:34Z

There is a rumor that the BlackBerry Bold 9650, which we originally thought was going to be the Tour2 9650, will launch in May of this year. There is a lot of speculation about why RIM chose to go with the Bold 9650 versus the Tour brand, and most likely it’s because owners of the Tour 9630 would harbor some resentment that an update to their device came out so soon after they purchased their BlackBerry. To mitigate this possible PR disaster, RIM marketing have decided to go with the Bold label. It’s sort of funny how easy the general public can be misled with a simple marketing twist. Speaking of Tour devices, it also looks like a Verizon OS 5 upgrade will be coming in the next 2-3 weeks and will include PTT for an extra $5 per month.

The Artist Behind the LEGO BlackBerry at the BlackBerry Developer Conference

2010-03-12T16:50:06Z

Back at the BlackBerry Developer Conference, in the Experts Zone, there was a giant Tour 9630 made of LEGO bricks. It turns out that the BlackBerry was designed by a professional LEGO artist (yes, they exist) named Nathan Sawaya. Nathan is a former lawyer who now makes a living building artistic sculptures entirely out of LEGO. His portfolio includes a life-size Han Solo frozen in Carbonite, as well as a giant Monopoly game and a working cello.

Verizon Will Require Customers With BES Express to Upgrade Data Package

2010-03-12T15:54:42Z

One of the value propositions of BES Express was that corporate users would be able to use their BIS data plans on a BES, thus saving the company money on data plans and a BES license. It turns out Verizon will be requiring all users on BES Express to upgrade their data plan to the corporate rate. It seems RIM may have been unaware Verizon was going to do this, as they said “This means if you can browse the Internet from your BlackBerry smartphone today you are already on a service plan that can be used with BlackBerry Enterprise Server Express.” This is now technically incorrect.

Training memo to VZW tech support and customer service reps:

On March 1, 2010, RIM will launch BES Express (BESX), an entry-level version of BES.As with all Corporate email solutions, customers will need a corporate email data plan or feature added to a voice plan to allow access to BESX.

Note: Customers on the Email and Web for BlackBerry $29.99 data feature MAY NOT utilize BESX.

Overview:

BESX replaces BlackBerry Professional Software (BPS) in RIM’s product lineup and allows businesses using Microsoft® Exchange or Microsoft Small Business Server to support up to 75 BlackBerry subscribers without having to purchase Client Access Licenses (CAL) or a dedicated server. Additional users can be supported if BESX is installed on a dedicated server.

With the launch of BESX, RIM will discontinue the sale of BPS. Verizon Wireless will sell through our remaining BPS inventory and RIM will continue to support this solution for the foreseeable future.

Customer Information/Eligibility:

BESX will be available directly from the RIM website. Customers should be directed there for additional product information.
BESX will not be available directly from Verizon Wireless.
As with all Corporate email solutions, customers will need a corporate email data plan or feature added to a voice plan to allow access to BESX

Reference: Information about current pricing options is available in the Verizon Wireless Small Business Guide or on vzw.com.

See the BES Express page in InfoManager for more information.

So what do you think, logical assumption that the data plan must be upgraded or false advertising?