We heard a rumor a while back that RIM’s new tablet, the BlackBerry PlayBook, would support Android apps. Now, RIM has confirmed that the PlayBook will sort of support Android apps.
What this means is that RIM will make it easy for Android app developers to port their applications over to the PlayBook, using what RIM calls a “high degree of API compatibility,” although Google’s Android Market will not be available on the PlayBook.
How Developers Can Port Their Apps
Developers currently building for the BlackBerry or Android platforms will be able to quickly and easily port their apps to run on the BlackBerry Tablet OS thanks to a high degree of API compatibility. The new optional app players will be available for download from BlackBerry App World and will be placed in a secure “sandbox” on the BlackBerry PlayBook where the BlackBerry Java or Android apps can be run.
Developers will simply repackage, code sign, and submit their BlackBerry Java and Android apps to BlackBerry App World. Once approved, the apps will be distributed through BlackBerry App World, providing a new opportunity for many developers to reach BlackBerry PlayBook users.
So basically, PlayBook users will have to download the applications from the BlackBerry App World, and only certain applications will be available.
Implications for the App Ecosystem
This move by RIM to support Android apps on the PlayBook is a strategic one, aimed at expanding the PlayBook’s app ecosystem. By allowing Android developers to port their apps with minimal effort, RIM is effectively broadening the range of applications available to PlayBook users. This could be a significant selling point for the PlayBook, as one of the major criticisms of new platforms is often the lack of available apps.
However, it’s important to note that not all Android apps will be available on the PlayBook. Developers will need to go through the process of repackaging, code signing, and submitting their apps to BlackBerry App World. This means that while the potential for a wide range of apps exists, the actual availability will depend on developer adoption.
Moreover, the apps will run in a secure “sandbox” environment, which could have both positive and negative implications. On the positive side, this adds a layer of security, ensuring that apps do not interfere with the core operating system or other apps. On the downside, this could potentially limit the functionality of some apps, especially those that require deeper integration with the device’s hardware or software.
Another point to consider is the absence of Google’s Android Market on the PlayBook. While BlackBerry App World will serve as the primary distribution channel, the lack of direct access to the Android Market means that users might miss out on some apps that are exclusive to Google’s platform. This could be a drawback for users who are accustomed to the vast selection available on the Android Market.
In conclusion, RIM’s decision to support Android apps on the BlackBerry PlayBook is a double-edged sword. It opens up new opportunities for developers and enhances the app ecosystem for PlayBook users, but it also comes with certain limitations and challenges. Only time will tell how successful this strategy will be in attracting both developers and users to the PlayBook platform.
Source Crunch Gear
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