A BlackBerry really starts to lose some performance once you exceed around 20 apps and it’s no wonder the average is 14. Another interesting tidbit from the Nielsen study is that games and weather apps are the most popular across all devices, with navigation apps quickly gaining popularity. Social networking is also very popular with Facebook being a top-ranked app across all platforms. Twitter is only in the top 5 apps for BlackBerry and YouTube doesn’t make the top for either BlackBerry or iPhone.
Rogers sent out an email telling reps that beginning September 10th, new BlackBerry users will have to use their BlackBerry to register their BIS email and they’ll no longer be able to do so online via the web portal. Online BIS activation is still possible with other carriers such as Bell, but Rogers has decided to opt out. Rogers says that they have been receiving a high volume of password related support calls, and since the device doesn’t require the password, they’re cutting support costs. It’s likely that more carriers will follow suit.
Canada has a new mobile provider and similar to WIND Mobile, Videotron uses AWS spectrum to offer 3G. The new mobile provider is selling the Bold 9700 and the Pearl 3G, along with a host of Android devices. The network is restricted to Quebec, so this post should probably be written in French, mais combien d’vouz parlez Francais? The good news is that if you’re roaming around Canada, you should get service in 95% of the country.
First Orion has released PrivacyStar 2.0, a popular app that provides call blocking, caller ID via reverse Caller Lookup and the ability to report Do Not Call violators in the United States and Canada. The latest version of PrivacyStar features a completely redesigned UI, as well as the ability to report unfair debt collection practices and support for BlackBerry OS 6. The app also features: Continue reading ‘PrivacyStar by First Orion Updated to Version 2.0 with Revamped UI and More’
The first BlackBerry Torch commercial was pretty cool but it took some criticism for showing off features (eg keyboard) that weren’t really going to impress consumers. Also, the ad sounds like it’s going to break out into Dolly Parton’s “9 to 5″. The latest ad is up on BlackBerry’s YouTube channel and it shows off the media capabilities of the phone. The commercial takes place in San Francisco, where RIM is going to host the 2010 developer conference. Considering the iPhone presence in San Francisco, California and the Valley, why does RIM insist on shooting commercials and hosting conferences there? Get your own turf.
Chocolate Chunk Apps make an app called WiFi Media Backup for BlackBerry that allows you to automatically upload photos, videos and voice-notes from your BlackBerry to your PC, wirelessly and in the background. The application requires two parts: a BlackBerry app, and a lightweight PC application called Media Server. For anyone with a lot of media on their device, this app helps you keep a backup without having to plug in.
