We have been hearing some rumors over the last few weeks that RIM would be dropping the price of their BlackBerry PlayBook tablet down to $199, and now RIM has confirmed on Twitter that they will be offering the PlayBook through select retailers for $199 for the holidays.
The #BlackBerry #PlayBook is at select #US & #Canadian retailers starting at $199. Limited time. https://bbry.lv/BBPBOF #HappyHolidays!
There are no details on how long the PlayBook will be available for $199 you can find out more details over at RIM.
Features and Specifications of the BlackBerry PlayBook
The BlackBerry PlayBook, originally launched in April 2011, was RIM’s first foray into the tablet market. It features a 7-inch display with a resolution of 1024 x 600 pixels, making it compact and portable. The device is powered by a 1 GHz dual-core processor and comes with 1 GB of RAM, ensuring smooth performance for most tasks. The PlayBook also includes 16 GB, 32 GB, or 64 GB of internal storage, catering to different user needs.
One of the standout features of the PlayBook is its operating system, the BlackBerry Tablet OS, which is based on QNX technology. This OS is known for its multitasking capabilities, allowing users to run multiple apps simultaneously without significant performance degradation. The PlayBook also supports Adobe Flash, which was a significant advantage at the time of its release, as many websites still relied on Flash for multimedia content.
In terms of connectivity, the PlayBook offers Wi-Fi and Bluetooth support, but it lacks built-in cellular connectivity. However, users can tether the tablet to their BlackBerry smartphones to access the internet on the go. The device also includes a 5 MP rear camera and a 3 MP front camera, suitable for video calls and casual photography.
Market Reception and Price Drop
Despite its impressive specifications, the BlackBerry PlayBook faced stiff competition from other tablets like the Apple iPad and various Android tablets. One of the main criticisms was the lack of native email, calendar, and contact apps at launch, which were essential features for many users. RIM later addressed these issues through software updates, but the initial shortcomings affected the PlayBook’s market reception.
The decision to drop the price to $199 is likely a strategic move by RIM to boost sales during the holiday season. This significant price reduction makes the PlayBook an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers looking for a capable tablet. The $199 price point is particularly appealing when compared to other tablets in the market, many of which are priced significantly higher.
For those interested in purchasing the PlayBook, it is available at select US and Canadian retailers. However, it is important to note that this offer is for a limited time, and there is no information on how long the discounted price will be available. Potential buyers should act quickly to take advantage of this deal.
The BlackBerry PlayBook, with its robust hardware and multitasking capabilities, offers excellent value at the reduced price of $199. While it may not have achieved the same level of success as some of its competitors, the PlayBook remains a solid choice for those seeking a versatile and affordable tablet. For more details, you can visit RIM’s official Twitter page.
Source RIM Twitter
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