We recently heard that RIM was offering free PlayBook tablets to developers who were creating and bringing their Android apps to the PlayBook and the new version of their OS, PlayBook OS 2.0. This initiative is part of RIM’s broader strategy to expand the app ecosystem for their tablet by leveraging the vast array of existing Android applications. By doing so, RIM aims to attract more users to the PlayBook platform, enhancing its appeal in a competitive market dominated by the likes of Apple’s iPad and various Android tablets.
RIM also announced that they were extending the offer until the beginning of March, giving developers more time to port their apps and take advantage of the free PlayBook offer. This extension is likely a strategic move to ensure a robust lineup of apps is available when PlayBook OS 2.0 officially launches. The availability of a wide range of applications is crucial for the success of any mobile operating system, and RIM’s proactive approach in this regard is commendable.
Possible Launch Date for BlackBerry PlayBook OS 2.0
According to the guys over at N4BB, RIM intends to launch their PlayBook OS 2.0 on the 21st of February, although this has yet to be confirmed by RIM. If this date holds true, it would mark a significant milestone for the company as they seek to revitalize interest in the PlayBook. The new OS is expected to bring a host of new features and improvements, including enhanced multitasking capabilities, a revamped user interface, and better integration with BlackBerry services.
One of the most anticipated features of PlayBook OS 2.0 is the inclusion of a native email client, which was notably absent in the original release. This addition addresses one of the major criticisms of the PlayBook and is expected to significantly improve the user experience. Furthermore, the new OS will support Android apps, which means users will have access to a much larger library of applications, thereby increasing the PlayBook’s utility and appeal.
What to Expect from PlayBook OS 2.0
PlayBook OS 2.0 is also expected to include improvements in the browser, making it faster and more efficient. The browser is a critical component of any tablet, and enhancements in this area will likely be well-received by users. Additionally, the new OS is rumored to feature better support for enterprise users, including enhanced security features and improved compatibility with corporate email systems. This focus on enterprise functionality aligns with RIM’s traditional strength in the business sector and could help the PlayBook carve out a niche in this market.
Another exciting feature expected in PlayBook OS 2.0 is the updated BlackBerry Bridge functionality. This feature allows users to connect their BlackBerry smartphones to the PlayBook, enabling seamless sharing of content and notifications between the two devices. The updated Bridge is anticipated to offer more robust and intuitive integration, making it easier for users to manage their digital lives across multiple devices.
As soon as we get some sort of official confirmation from RIM on when they will be launching the BlackBerry PlayBook OS 2.0, we will let you guys know. The anticipation surrounding this update is palpable, and it will be interesting to see how the new features and improvements are received by both existing PlayBook users and potential new customers.
In conclusion, RIM’s efforts to enhance the PlayBook through the introduction of PlayBook OS 2.0 and the incentivization of Android app developers are steps in the right direction. These initiatives demonstrate RIM’s commitment to improving the user experience and expanding the PlayBook’s capabilities. Whether these efforts will be enough to significantly boost the PlayBook’s market share remains to be seen, but they certainly represent a positive development for the platform.
Source N4BB
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