The new version of RIM's PlayBook operating system is out today, finally bringing native email to the company's ailing tablet.
Those of you who own the PlayBook will be delighted to know you can now install the free update, by keeping an eye out for the software update icon in the status bar (it looks like a little box with a green arrow pointing downward), then tapping this icon and starting the download.
With version 2.0, the PlayBook gets an email app that also drags in messages from Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter, as well as improvements to BlackBerry Bridge that let you use your BlackBerry phone as a remote control for the tablet, and built-in calendar and contacts apps.
2.0 also includes support for some Android applications, which is good news, as the number of decent apps on the Android Market far exceeds those on RIM's own app store. You'll see those apps popping up on BlackBerry App World.
Helpful additions then, but it's a crying shame these features weren't present at launch. Worse still, this crucial update was expected to arrive way back in October.
The other bad news is that there's still no sign of BlackBerry Messenger. BBM is the popular messaging service you find on BlackBerry phones that suffered a serious outage last year, and was a target for blame following the London riots.
While those who splashed cash on the PlayBook will appreciate the new features, I'd be amazed if this update helps rescue the PlayBook, which had its price slashed to £169 in January. Manufacturer RIM admitted in December to picking up a £235m bill for unsold PlayBooks.
BlackBerry's hopes now rest with BlackBerry 10, and the rumoured BlackBerry London smart phone. Will that be enough to put the company back on top? I'm doubtful, but stranger things have happened. I want to know your thoughts in the comments, or on our Facebook wall.
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georg55 21 February, 2012 18:07
The upgrade is active in the uk from 8am this morning, a 354mb download so will take some time if on slow boardband.but the install goes quickly without problems, worth it for £169.00
tablet.QNX mulitasks better than ios or android.The video app is better. the camera quicker
flash plyer is the best on any tablet.you get full web no mobile sites as on android.great litle tablet to use on go as it is 7" and portable, no bag needed, can fit inside coat pocket/leather jackets side pockets are suited.
William Rayner 21 February, 2012 18:13
That'll be good for the 10 people who have one of these xD
anonymous 21 February, 2012 23:07
Had my Playbook a few weeks , and am so impressed that my son and wife now have one , new update looks good !!!
John_Carlos 23 February, 2012 13:49
The update has impressed me in a lot of ways. Many people are focusing on the native email aspects of it, but it brought so so much more. Im still discovering things. I can say this is a legitimate alternative to the iPad, and has topped all or most android tablets.
anonymous 6 September, 2012 00:38
I am old time iPhone user. Until a year ago I went for BB bold 9900 and now playbook. After me 2 of my family members and 3 friends end up purchasing it too.
My rating is 5 stars for little tablet. From emails to flash player every thing work just how I would like it to. The best feature for me is the blackberry bridge. You don't need the stupid 3G version of tablet. Just use mobile and tither it.
All in all, I have hardly been satisfied to 100% with my gadgets but this playbook has given me 100% satisfaction. If you haven't bought one, get it now.