RIM have yet to give an official launch date for their BlackBerry Tablet, although there were reports that the tablet would launch some time in February.
Now it appears that the BlackBerry PlayBook tablet may not launch until after March 2011, according to comments made by RIM executives in a recent earnings call.
With Apple possibly about to announce the iPad 2 in January for an April launch, the delay of the PlayBook may end up being bad news for RIM, who will be entering the tablet market at around the same time as the new iPad 2 launches.
Potential Impact on Market Position
The delay in the launch of the BlackBerry PlayBook could have significant implications for RIM’s position in the highly competitive tablet market. Entering the market at the same time as Apple’s iPad 2 could overshadow the PlayBook’s debut, making it harder for RIM to capture consumer interest and market share. Apple has a strong brand presence and a loyal customer base, which could make it challenging for RIM to compete effectively.
Moreover, the tablet market is not just about hardware; it’s also about the ecosystem of apps and services that support the device. Apple has a well-established App Store with millions of apps, while RIM’s app ecosystem is still growing. This could be a deciding factor for consumers when choosing between the two devices.
Features and Specifications
Despite the potential challenges, the BlackBerry PlayBook does have some compelling features that could attract users. The PlayBook is expected to come with a 7-inch display, making it more portable than the iPad, which has a 9.7-inch screen. It will also feature a dual-core processor, which should provide robust performance for multitasking and running complex applications.
The PlayBook will run on the QNX operating system, which is known for its reliability and efficiency. This could be a significant advantage for business users who require a stable and secure platform for their work. Additionally, the PlayBook will support Adobe Flash, which is not supported by the iPad. This could be a crucial feature for users who rely on Flash-based websites and applications.
Another notable feature is the PlayBook’s ability to pair with BlackBerry smartphones, allowing users to access their email, calendar, and other data seamlessly. This integration could be a strong selling point for existing BlackBerry users who want a tablet that complements their smartphone.
Market Competition and Future Prospects
The tablet market is becoming increasingly crowded, with numerous manufacturers vying for a share of the pie. Besides Apple, other major players like Samsung, Google, and Microsoft are also in the fray, each offering unique features and capabilities. For RIM, the key to success will be differentiating the PlayBook from its competitors and highlighting its unique strengths.
One potential strategy could be to focus on the enterprise market, where RIM has traditionally been strong. By offering robust security features, seamless integration with BlackBerry smartphones, and enterprise-grade applications, RIM could carve out a niche for the PlayBook in the business sector.
In conclusion, while the delay in the launch of the BlackBerry PlayBook could pose challenges for RIM, the tablet’s unique features and potential advantages in the enterprise market could help it find its footing. The coming months will be crucial for RIM as it prepares to enter the highly competitive tablet market and faces off against established players like Apple.
via Crunch Gear
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