Rabu, 02 Maret 2011

BerryReview.com Giving Back to the BlackBerry Community

BerryReview.com Giving Back to the BlackBerry Community

More BlackBerry PlayBook Features Confirmed – GPS Mass Storage Mode and More

Posted: 02 Mar 2011 03:09 AM PST

IMG_2853 

At a PlayBook event yesterday RIM was showing of a little newer build (though nowhere near what they actually have internally) and I noticed some interesting things. Nothing mind blowing but for those with PlayBook envy like me every detail counts. For example, one of the things that always struck me about the PlayBook was the lack of a blinking LED notification. While that might not be necessary on the PlayBook I was always curious to see how you know their are notifications for you to address.

IMG_2852

I happened to see this show up in our demo and as you can see the notification is shown by a slight red highlight in the top left corner. The notification went away before I had a chance to see how you view the notifications but it was simply trying to tell us it was running low on battery.

Here are some other things I noticed or had confirmed:

The BlackBerry PlayBook DEFINITELY includes a GPS built in along with an 6 way magnetometer for augmented reality apps. This will be a cool development. I tried digging through the PlayBook documented API's and have not found anything about GPS yet…

I asked RIM how you will get video and music on and off the PlayBook and it looks like there will be two ways. There will be desktop manager which will allow you to copy over your music AND backup your device. You will also supposedly be able to mount your PlayBook storage drive and copy music, movies, and more kind of like how BlackBerrys currently work where it will ask you if you want to use USB mass storage mode.

IMG_2846

The BlackBerry PlayBook Music app is sweet with some cool features that let you sort and find your music. Who knows it might just totally replace my BlackBerry smartphone for that.

RIM has really improved the touch input on the BlackBerry PlayBook compared to what they were showing at CES in January. The touch controls are very easy and do not require the same double tapping that we kind of needed to do then. Also gestures are super fluid.

I figured out how you put the device to hibernate mode to stop accidental touching. You simply tap the slightly small power button and it goes into sleep mode. Tap it again to wake it up. The device also has a screen saver mode where it simply turns off the screen and I found you could get off that mode by just swiping your finger on the screen.

Also interesting was that you can reboot the BlackBerry PlayBook simply by holding the power button. The demo device took about 30-40 seconds to reboot but that is supposedly even faster in later internal builds. Still rebooting will be far and in between since app installs do not require a reboot and potentially OS updates also do not require a reboot due to how QNX works.

Side loading of apps to a BlackBerry PlayBook from your computer will be possible. From what I could tell OTA installs will be limited to BlackBerry App World for now but who knows. Enterprise users will also have some way of provisioning apps on a device but I couldn't get more info than that.

IMG_2843

Need for Speed for PlayBook is awesome. It is a global setting if you want to allow apps to run in the background like a game or video when you switch apps. They have some fun names for the different modes but my picture of the different names came out fuzzy. :(

Let me know if there are any other questions you wanted answered and I will try to get them answered! Obviously I already asked when it will be released and I am still hearing Q1-ish so think March-April.

Here are some other shots I took of the enterprise SAP apps and other fun stuff at the event:

IMG_2850 IMG_2847 IMG_2848 IMG_2849

If you liked this article, you might find these interesting:

Posted by Ronen Halevy for ©BerryReview, March 2, 2011, 6:09 am. | More BlackBerry PlayBook Features Confirmed – GPS Mass Storage Mode and More | Leave a comment |


German Politician Tracked Using Cellphone Records… Creepy

Posted: 01 Mar 2011 02:52 PM PST

Tracking Cellphone

In recent TV shows I keep on seeing law enforcement using cell phones to track criminals. The amount of information they can find about where you are and what you were doing while you were there is kind of mind blowing. We have seen similar things before where people would use Twitter, Foursquare, or other services to track your location but this latest example was done by a German politician. Malte Spitz managed to get six months worth of data the carrier, Dutsche Telekom, had on him and submitted it to Zeit Online (German Newspaper) which turned it into a web app where you can track the politician using these logs.

The tracking system is in German so it is a bit hard to follow but the icons and movements for 6 months is pretty crazy. I have been trying to do some digging into what kind of records carriers in the US keep but have not managed to get very far. Just imagine. In the future when you get a speeding ticket your carrier could actually prove how fast you were going.

Check out the tracking app simulation from your desktop at this link (German).

via Ghacks – Thanks Aseem for the tip!

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Posted by Ronen Halevy for ©BerryReview, March 1, 2011, 5:52 pm. | German Politician Tracked Using Cellphone Records… Creepy | 6 comments |


RIM Addresses Some Developer Question Regarding App World and Other Requirements

Posted: 01 Mar 2011 02:00 PM PST

ScreenHunter_01 Mar. 01 13.56RIM has been receiving some good feedback from developers lately. Yesterday Ronen commented on some of the issues and how RIM can make it easier for developers to make apps for RIM devices. One of the things that RIM is so consistent is the redundant work load it puts people when registering.

Today Alex from RIM has addressed some of the issues he pointed out including issues with app world through their official Developers Blog.

Here is the complete statement:

We're fast approaching the two-year anniversary of the launch of BlackBerry App World™ storefront. That would be the launch of the store itself – but for you, our developer community, BlackBerry App World has been open for app and theme submissions for over two years. We've come a long way, and we're excited about increasing the opportunities for you to build and distribute amazing apps for BlackBerry® platform users around the world.

We've recently made announcements regarding new country rollouts for BlackBerry App World, upcoming carrier billing integrations, and of course the BBM™ Gifting Platform. While these are great additions, we are always trying to make it easier for current vendors to submit and manage their apps, and for new developers to get signed up. I wanted to take this opportunity to address some of the big questions we've seen in the Developer Forums, blog comments, and on Twitter® regarding app development for BlackBerry smartphones and the BlackBerry® PlayBook™ tablet.

Why do you require a notarized proof of identification?
This is a great question, and definitely one we get often. Whether you're a large business or a garage developer, we want to make sure that you and only you can register yourself as a vendor. When a business registers as a vendor, we request proof of incorporation (business license or ID for example).

For individual developers, we have been requesting a notarized form to validate your identity. Your privacy and the protection of your identity are extremely important to us. At the same time, we realize that for many developers, this is an extra burden and in some cases can be very difficult or costly to obtain. We've been working with the community and our business teams to find a better way to handle this. We'll provide an update in the coming weeks.

Will you start charging $200 for app submissions or vendor registration again?
At our BlackBerry Developer Conference last September, we announced that we were waiving the $200.00 registration fee and also waiving the submission fees. To clarify, there are currently no fees with submitting apps, and there are no limits to the number of apps you can submit –currently, there is no plan to change this. We truly believe that it's our privilege to provide you with a world-class marketplace for your applications and themes.

What do I select for device and OS when submitting BlackBerry PlayBook tablet apps?
The two most reported issues concern OS and device selection. We're addressing these further in upcoming BlackBerry App World Vendor Portal updates.

First, for device selection – you'll be able to specify what platform you're uploading the bundle for.

BlackBerry App World

In the screen shot above, you can see that we're adding a new "Platform" selector. Once you've made your platform selection, the list of OS versions will filter so that you only see the OS choices appropriate for the BlackBerry PlayBook tablet or BlackBerry smartphones. We'll also be changing the OS selector so that you can check off the exact OS versions that your app or theme support.

The other big change will be in device selection. With the next release of the BlackBerry App World vendor portal, we've removed the "All Devices" option. You'll now be able to choose BlackBerry or PlayBook tablet first, and then the list of devices will filter to either just BlackBerry smartphones or the BlackBerry PlayBook tablet.

The Signing Keys Questions


On Tuesday February 23rd, we announced the availability of the BlackBerry Signing Tool for the BlackBerry PlayBook tablet,and we've since received a number of questions about what this means for apps that are already submitted or approved in BlackBerry App World. Don't worry, we've got answers.

"If I've already submitted my app for the BlackBerry PlayBook tablet, do I need to sign it and resubmit?"Yes. Once you have your app signed, you will need to re-submit it as a new release of your app in BlackBerry App World.

"Does that mean my app needs to be re-approved?" No. If your app has already been approved, we will just treat it as a new release and it will go through the normal new release review process (with no approval requirement) – typically 1-2 business days.

"If my app wasn't approved yet, and I re-submit, does that bump me back to the end of the queue?"Definitely not. When you submit a new release, it doesn't affect your place in the queue. We literally have testers on both sides of the planet reviewing apps 24/7, so we'll get to yours as quickly as possible.

"How does that affect the free BlackBerry PlayBook tablet offer?" There is no effect on the offer. The rules are that you need to have your app submitted before 11:59 p.m. ET on March 15, 2011. The signing of the app is required for distribution in BlackBerry App World when the BlackBerry PlayBook tablet launches. If your app isn't signed, you may still qualify for the offer, but you will not be able to offer your app for distribution. See the full offer details.

With the upcoming regulations regarding mobile payments, how will RIM be paying vendors in India via PayPal®?
The government of India has an enacted new legislation regarding PayPal transactions in India. Effective March 1st, payments may not exceed US $500.00 per transaction. To continue providing an uninterrupted service to those affected vendors, our payment partners will be splitting any payments above US $500.00 into multiple payments. Vendors will still receive their full revenue distribution. You should also note that as of March 1, 2011, you will not be permitted to keep a balance in your PayPal account beyond 7 days of receipt. For more information related to this change, please read the PayPal India Notification.

As always, we want your feedback to make BlackBerry App World the best place to distribute apps to BlackBerry platform users. We're constantly interacting on our Developer Forums and on our Twitteraccount – so keep the feedback coming.

It is nice to see that RIM is listening and taking a more direct and open approach to the feedback being provided and letting us know that they are not just sitting on it and actually working to improve.  Hopefully they are able to improve and find solutions faster so that they can attract more developers and make the overall experience much better.  RIM has been really busy lately but is good to know they are paying attention.

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Posted by Luis Merlos for ©BerryReview, March 1, 2011, 5:00 pm. | RIM Addresses Some Developer Question Regarding App World and Other Requirements | 4 comments |


Need More Cowbell? With the Free PlayBook Percussion App, You Got It!

Posted: 01 Mar 2011 12:46 PM PST

“I got a fever! And the only prescription is more cowbell!” – Bruce Dickenson. Everyone could use a little more cowbell in their lives. I’ve always wanted to learn how to play the drums and rock out as well.

Percussion for PlayBook will really get my fingers tapping and it looks like a lot of fun. I’m looking forward to seeing this little app in action. I hope the sounds are realistic and that the multitouch capability of the PlayBook really shines through.

As shown in the picture, you will be able to choose from 5 different percussion instruments:

  • Drum Kit
  • Bongos
  • Congas
  • Triangles
  • And of course Cowbells!

Check out Percussion in App World.

“Babies, before we’re done here, y’all be wearing gold-plated diapers.” – Bruce Dickenson

If you have no idea what all this cowbell talk is about. Watch this video. You’ll thank me after you’ve stopped laughing.

If you liked this article, you might find these interesting:

Posted by jforce for ©BerryReview, March 1, 2011, 3:46 pm. | Need More Cowbell? With the Free PlayBook Percussion App, You Got It! | 2 comments |


Are You a BlackBerry Addict? Ask Yourself These 3 Questions.

Posted: 01 Mar 2011 10:44 AM PST

I have been reprimanded and embarrassed on more than one occasion, messing with my BlackBerry when I know I shouldn't. At church, at work, at school, in meetings and at home.

Whether I'm responding to email, checking scores, playing games, chatting with friends, or reading blogs, I find the need to have my BlackBerry with me at ALL times. I admit, I am one of the "BlackBerry people" that Jerry Seinfeld refers to. I walk around holding the BlackBerry, because that is what BlackBerry commands me to do. I have also been guilty of the "creepy head down" on occasion, much to the dismay of my loving wife.

I have learned a simple rule: If you feel like you might get in trouble for using your BlackBerry, you probably shouldn’t be using your BlackBerry.

If you think you might be a BlackBerry addict, take this short quiz from the LA Times to find out:

Question 1 – Do you find yourself getting less done than before you were so linked in?

  • Studies have shown that multitasking takes longer than completing the same tasks separately.

Question 2 – Do you find it difficult not to check for emails or take a call when you're in the middle of a conversation or meeting?

  • This is exactly where the "creepy head down" syndrome can take effect.

Question 3 – Are you getting too attached to technology that you no longer have time to think?

  • Quiet meditation seems to be a lost art.

If you answered yes to all 3 questions I would recommend starting this 12-Step Program suggested by Peter Lattman of the Wall Street Journal. Either that, or you could buy this Freedom app to force you to lay off the BB.

I think we could all benefit from a little BB downtime…wait, what's that red blinking? …Gotta go!

Source: Los Angeles Times

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Posted by jforce for ©BerryReview, March 1, 2011, 1:44 pm. | Are You a BlackBerry Addict? Ask Yourself These 3 Questions. | 11 comments |


BeBuzz v4.0 Released (Aka BerryBuzz) With New User Interface and More

Posted: 01 Mar 2011 09:03 AM PST

bebuzz4.6 bebuzz4.1

BellShare has updated one of their flagship apps, BerryBuzz, to version 4.0 and renamed it to BeBuzz at the same time. My guess is that RIM forced the rename but who knows. The new version 4.0 of BeBuzz adds a whole slew of new features including:

  • Toasts – Shows small unobtrusive messages at the bottom or top of the screen for notifications and incoming messages
  • BlackBerry Sound Profile Settings – Enable/disable LED, audible reminders, vibrate and toasts depending on your active BlackBerry sound profile
  • Custom Disco Colors – Now you can finally create your own disco colors! Share them via e-mail, Twitter and Facebook.
  • New Flashing Type "Smooth Pulse" – In addition to the regular LED flashing BeBuzz 4 adds the option to use a smooth pulsing LED light
  • Completely Reworked User Interface – Sleeker, cleaner and more powerful
  • More bug fixes, many minor changes and improvements

You can pick up this latest version of BeBuzz in the store for $5.99. This update is $1.99 for current users of BerryBuzz 3.x but users who purchased BerryBuzz after January 1st of this year are eligible for a free upgrade.

If you liked this article, you might find these interesting:

Posted by Ronen Halevy for ©BerryReview, March 1, 2011, 12:03 pm. | BeBuzz v4.0 Released (Aka BerryBuzz) With New User Interface and More | 5 comments |


Kind Developer Shares Ant Script for PlayBook WebWorks Builds

Posted: 01 Mar 2011 08:01 AM PST

 PlayBook Ant Script

If you have ever developed for the BlackBerry platform in any serious capacity you have probably used or at least heard of ANT scripts. ANT (Another Neat Tool) is a nice Java utility from Apache that helps you automate the building of applications from source code. While we can always wish that RIM would include one click build, sign, deploy buttons in all of their tools that is usually not the case. For example, as we mentioned in the BlackBerry Developer School of Hard Knocks article the process sometimes involves scratching your left ear with your right hand.

These ANT scripts help developers automate the 3-4 commands RIM requires to build an app and deploy it on devices like the PlayBook. Pnewhook was kind enough to share his sample ANT Build script for PlayBook WebWorks apps at this link in the official BlackBerry Forums.

I really hope RIM manages to make this whole process into one button but for now I am working on customizing the script a bit to strip out .DS_Store files which invalidate the build on my Mac.

If you liked this article, you might find these interesting:

Posted by Ronen Halevy for ©BerryReview, March 1, 2011, 11:01 am. | Kind Developer Shares Ant Script for PlayBook WebWorks Builds | One comment |


Berry FC Nintendo NES Emulator for Retro Gaming

Posted: 01 Mar 2011 06:57 AM PST

Berry FC 2 Berry FC

I remember back in the day trying to get NES games on my BlackBerry 7100t using a J2ME emulator without much luck. Since then I have kind of given up trying since BlackBerry games tend to be better than most NES game. Still it is nice to see that LiHui has not given up the dream and has released Berry FC. The product description claims to not support the BlackBerry Torch but other than that most devices seem to be supported.

The Nintendo NES emulator lets you load NES ROM games from your SD card so you can have tons of games on your BlackBerry. You have to search for the NES ROMs yourself but you will find many with a quick Google search. The app does not support sound but most emulators take awhile to get that right.

Other features include:

  • Quick Save/Load. It provide 10 save slots for each rom.
  • Save/load key. You can use one touch to save/load states.
  • Custom key assignment: Up, Down, Left, Right, A, B, AA, BB, Start, Select, Quick Save, Quick Load, Trigger key.
  • Trigger key. it can let AA or BB down without press them all the time.
  • Custom screen size, hue, tint.
  • Support thousands of roms.

You can pick up Berry FC for $3.99 in the store at this link.

via PocketBerry

If you liked this article, you might find these interesting:

Posted by Ronen Halevy for ©BerryReview, March 1, 2011, 9:57 am. | Berry FC Nintendo NES Emulator for Retro Gaming | 6 comments |


New Berrus theme from MiPar Designs

Posted: 01 Mar 2011 06:12 AM PST

MiPar designs doesn’t push out themes by the dozen but it’s more about quality for them than quantity. Their latest, Berrus  “is based off the Nexus S smartphone but with a BlackBerry twist. As MiPar Designs second theme release it is yet another great theme. The homescreen gives you access to (7) icons, and the banner that takes you to the manage connections setup screen. Navigation is a breeze, the transitions are clean, and you have the original BlackBerry 6 style icons.” Personally I like the color scheme and overall sleek style. Looks like Berrus is available for 9700/9600 OS 6 non-touch devices for a price of $3.99 in our Berryreview Store.

If you liked this article, you might find these interesting:

Posted by Vicky for ©BerryReview, March 1, 2011, 9:12 am. | New Berrus theme from MiPar Designs | 4 comments |


WordPress for BlackBerry v1.4.6 Beta Released

Posted: 01 Mar 2011 05:45 AM PST

Wordpress for BlackBerry Update beta

I am not sure what the story is with WordPress for BlackBerry and their version numbering conventions but v1.4.6 (aka 1.4.5.2) is now available in beta form. A few readers sent in the change log from the WP4BB developer blog over the weekend and it seems like this beta is an overhaul of the storage security of the app along with a bunch of bug fixes. According to the devs this new version is mostly under the hood improvements with a "completely different, strongly encrypted storage model" whatever that means. Hey security is good right?

Other changes include:

  • Improved the communication layer.
  • You can now select which type of the Media API that should be used for uploading photos and videos.
  • Fix for VideoPress issue when uploading multiple videos #181.
  • Fix for app permission issues that could freeze the app if all permissions are not set to Allow #179.
  • Fix for postID that are bigger than the XML-RPC specification #180.
  • Improved the XML-RPC calls.
  • Improved the preview screen, which is now using the BlackBerry browser or any browser installed on your device.
  • Fix for post/page comments setting that allow people to post comments on new articles created using the app #163.
  • Other minor changes.

You can pick up the v1.4.6 beta (aka 1.4.5.2) of WordPress for BlackBerry at:

BTW kudos to the WordPress for BlackBerry team for keeping such detailed change logs. RIM could learn a thing or two from you…

If you liked this article, you might find these interesting:

Posted by Ronen Halevy for ©BerryReview, March 1, 2011, 8:45 am. | WordPress for BlackBerry v1.4.6 Beta Released | 8 comments |


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