A new rumor is floating around the internet about two new version of BIS (BlackBerry Internet Service), which supposedly will launch early 2010.The first would be version 3.0 which will include enhanced updates for Google Synchronization, which is said to be launching in March 2010 (but we all know how RIM likes to be late). Shortly followed after that would be BIS version 3.1 which would bring even more new synchronization features including: Google Calendar, Hotmail Address Book, and Yahoo! Address Book syncing.

BIS 3.0 (March 2010):

• Improved the Gmail plugin:
  • Synchronization deleted messages, read / unread and sent between the box and your own Gmail (so far worked only in the opposite direction)
  • The ability to add and remove labels from your device

BIS 3.1 (Soon after):

• Synchronize Google Calendar
• Synchronize your address book from Hotmail account
• Synchronize your address book from Yahoo

Yahoo mailbox will cause an automatic download of Yahoo messenger on the device

[via BerryReview, BBLeaks]

I apologize to everyone for the slow coverage of the BlackBerry Developers Conference this week. One cool thing that was announced at BB DevCon 2009 was Open GL ES coming to BlackBerry smartphones. This will allow developers to develop 3D games and graphics for BlackBerry, plus develop new interfaces for themes with the new BlackBerry Theme Studio. Open GL ES will be supported on several devices running OS 5.0, including the new Storm2, and Curve 8530. Skip on over to the full press release for complete details…

RIM Announces BlackBerry Application Platform Enhancements to Foster Rich Content Development
OpenGL ES Support, Java GUI Builder and Theme Studio to Help Developers Generate Dynamic User Experiences

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA–(Marketwire – Nov. 9, 2009) – 2009 BlackBerry Developer Conference – Research In Motion (RIM) (NASDAQ:RIMM)(TSX:RIM) today announced enhancements to the BlackBerry(R) Application Platform that will further enable developers to rapidly develop rich content and applications. The enhancements include support for OpenGL(R) ES for the development of 3D games and graphics; an upcoming Java(R) GUI builder for the rapid development of user interfaces for BlackBerry applications; and BlackBerry(R) Theme Studio for the creation of themes for BlackBerry(R) smartphones.

“We are making it easier than ever for developers, hobbyists and content providers to build graphic-rich experiences for BlackBerry smartphones,” said Alan Brenner, Senior Vice President, BlackBerry Platform at Research In Motion. “These new features will help drive a multitude of engaging themes, games and applications for BlackBerry smartphone users.”

OpenGL ES Support Enables 3D Games and Graphics for BlackBerry Smartphones

With OpenGL ES support, Java developers will have the ability to build 3D games and graphics for BlackBerry smartphones running BlackBerry OS 5.0 and higher. The OpenGL ES support is available through an update of the BlackBerry(R) Java(R) Software Development Kit (BlackBerry Java SDK). A beta version of the BlackBerry Java SDK 5.0 including OpenGL ES support is available at http://na.blackberry.com/eng/developers/devbetasoftware/javasdk5.jsp

GUI Builder for BlackBerry Java Plug-in for Eclipse to Simplify User Interface Design

An upcoming GUI builder integrated into the BlackBerry Java Plug-in for Eclipse will make it faster and easier for Java developers to build user interfaces for BlackBerry applications. Developers will be able to rapidly create and localize complex user interfaces with a WYSIWYG (what-you-see-is-what-you-get) view and drag and drop capabilities. The Java GUI builder will also allow developers to easily preview their user interface design on different BlackBerry smartphones.

The GUI builder for the BlackBerry Java Plug-in for Eclipse will be previewed this week at the 2009 BlackBerry Developer Conference (www.blackberrydeveloperconference.com). It is expected to be available in mid 2010.

New BlackBerry Theme Studio Enables Easy Theme Design, Illustration and Animation

RIM is also announcing the availability of BlackBerry Theme Studio – a free suite of theme design, illustration and animation tools that make it easier to create custom interfaces (themes) for BlackBerry smartphones running BlackBerry OS 4.2.2 and higher, including the new BlackBerry(R) Storm2(TM) and BlackBerry(R) Bold(TM) 9700 smartphones.

BlackBerry Theme Studio includes:

–  BlackBerry Theme Builder – a design tool for customizing a smartphone’s
user interface, including the home screen layout, fonts, icons, message
list colors, cursors, dialog boxes and home screen application icons.

–  BlackBerry Composer – an illustration and animation tool for creating
animated SVG graphics that can be used to add animation to theme buttons
and backgrounds as well as animate web sites and applications for
BlackBerry smartphones.

BlackBerry Theme Studio 5.0, which replaces the previously available Plazmic Content Developer’s Kit(TM), features the ability to import Adobe Photoshop files to BlackBerry Theme Builder, add ringtones and build screen transitions such as zooming, sliding, wiping and fading within themes. Ringtones and screen transitions are supported for BlackBerry smartphones running BlackBerry OS 5.0 and higher.

RIM also announced today that themes for BlackBerry smartphones can now be submitted to BlackBerry App World(TM).

BlackBerry Theme Studio is available for free and can be downloaded at www.blackberry.com/themestudio.

For more information about the BlackBerry Application Platform, visit www.blackberry.com/developer.

Loopt announced a major update for its free application for BlackBerry at the BlackBerry Developer Conference. Loopt connects users to the most relevant places and people nearby using background location updating. This new version better enhances a user’s ability to experience more around them by who’s around, what’s going on and where.

From the release:

Loopt now offers dynamically-generated, relevant local content about places and events from some of the best sources on the Web to help users meet up with nearby friends, explore new places to grab food, and find local events happening now.  Feature highlights include:

·    Discover the best places and events, including those rated highly by your friends on Pulse

·    See where your friends are on maps – view their latest updates listed in real-time and comment on them

·    Check-in to instantly share your updates with friends – easily update Facebook and Twitter with your photos and places in one Loopt check-in

·    Browse and rate local places and events – peruse detailed information from Zagat, Citysearch, and the Loopt community

·    Save money through special offers from nearby retailers with local coupons

Loopt is proud to partner with Zagat, the world’s leading provider of consumer-survey based information.  Zagat’s quality, trusted information is based on the collective experiences of thousands of avid consumers.

So I decided to find out just what Loopt is and what I can do with it. I downloaded it from their website and it installed quickly. It installs a cute little blue circle icon with two white circles intertwined, like a blue face with white oogly googly eyes. Logging in, you are able to create your account using your cell phone number. After it’s all set up. On the left side there are six buttons going down. Your main screen displays first in the center. You have a link to link to Twitter and Facebook. The next allows you to change your email, the next to do location sharing. This is nice as you can share, or hide from some or all of your friends. Next is Location refresh, and last My Alerts. Those you can set to be alerted to on by sms, email, or both.

Using the side buttons you have the option to check in with Loopt, Facebook, and Twitter. The next is Discover and this is where you can find hot events nearby and Hot places nearby which is restaurants. If you go to search you can find Bars, Coffee, Food, Gas and Events: all the ways we gather and socialize. Next is Friends. Here you can add friends, find friends, view on the map and see you and your friends. Lately is next, showing what you and your friends have updated today. Settings is the first screen you saw by default to change your settings and how you connect.

I have to admit, this is nice. I was alerted by text to the new friend request. It was easy to accept and message. You can see your friends on the map, and if you leave it running in the background, the location will update for you. I found it easy to use, great way to keep in touch, perfect to enhance social networking on your BlackBerry.

Loopt is available for the Curve 8900, Bold 9000, and the BlackBerry Tour 9630. You have to try this, it’s free, great for keeping track of the location of your friends, and what’s going on in your location. And what’s even nicer, the app is available to other platforms as well, so it’s possible to keep in touch with your friends even if they have a Droid. So don’t wait to be thrown for a loop, get Loopt and stay in the loop.

Grab your free copy of Loopt from here >

Loopt is also available on BlackBerry App  World here >

For more information, read more on Loopt here >

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

“There is tremendous opportunity for RIM and Adobe to align our platforms to help developers create BlackBerry applications that are highly engaging and deeply integrated in order to deliver the best user experience in the market,” said Jim Balsillie, Co-CEO, Research In Motion. “We are working closely with Adobe to enable our developer communities to build rich content services and BlackBerry Widgets that leverage the latest runtime environments, APIs and network services through Adobe’s industry leading design and development tools.”

RIM and Adobe to Simplify Delivery of Rich Content and Applications for BlackBerry Smartphones
Adobe to Deliver Support for BlackBerry Smartphones within Adobe Creative Suite; RIM to Incorporate Flash Platform into BlackBerry Platform

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA–(Marketwire – Nov. 9, 2009) – 2009 BlackBerry Developer Conference -

At the 2009 BlackBerry(R) Developer Conference, Research In Motion (RIM) (NASDAQ:RIMM)(TSX:RIM) and Adobe Systems Incorporated (NASDAQ:ADBE) today expanded their collaboration and announced that creative professionals and application developers will be able to use the Adobe(R) Flash(R) Platform technology and Adobe Creative Suite(R) content development and authoring tools to easily create rich content and application experiences for BlackBerry(R) smartphones.

“There is tremendous opportunity for RIM and Adobe to align our platforms to help developers create BlackBerry applications that are highly engaging and deeply integrated in order to deliver the best user experience in the market,” said Jim Balsillie, Co-CEO, Research In Motion. “We are working closely with Adobe to enable our developer communities to build rich content services and BlackBerry Widgets that leverage the latest runtime environments, APIs and network services through Adobe’s industry leading design and development tools.”

“RIM is at the forefront of driving smartphone innovation, and it’s only natural that further integrating our respective platforms will set new standards for engaging content and applications,” said Shantanu Narayen, president and CEO of Adobe. “The expanded partnership between both companies will open up great new opportunities by making it even easier for content designers and mobile application developers to create rich and compelling content for the BlackBerry platform.”

Future versions of Adobe Creative Suite starting with Adobe Creative Suite 5 will provide the ability for designers to create optimized graphic assets, such as image and video content, from tools such as Adobe Photoshop(R), Adobe Illustrator(R) and Adobe After Effects(R), for the BlackBerry platform. These graphics assets can then be easily imported into BlackBerry application development tools, including the BlackBerry(R) Java(R) Plug-in for Eclipse(TM) (www.blackberry.com/developers/java) and the BlackBerry(R) Web Plug-in for Eclipse(TM) (www.blackberry.com/developers/web), for use in applications and user interfaces. Backgrounds, icons and images created with Adobe tools such as Adobe Photoshop will also be able to be used in the new BlackBerry(R) Theme Studio (www.blackberry.com/developers/themes) to create compelling BlackBerry themes.

Adobe Dreamweaver(R), Adobe Fireworks(R) and Adobe Device Central software will also be enabled to support the creation and testing of BlackBerryWidgets and web content optimized for the BlackBerry(R) Browser. Additionally, users will be able to directly import photos and video captured on their BlackBerry smartphones and edit them using Adobe’s consumer offerings including Photoshop Elements and Photoshop.com.

The collaboration aims to accelerate the mobile application and content development workflow between BlackBerry application and web content developers and creative professionals that use Adobe tools. It will also reduce the re-creation of graphic assets and iterations that designers and developers have to go through to generate rich application user interfaces, animations, images and video content when supporting multiple platforms.

Today’s news builds upon the recent announcement that the two companies are working together as part of the Open Screen Project to bring the Adobe Flash(R) Player browser runtime to BlackBerry smartphones. The two companies will also be collaborating to adapt other key components of the Flash Platform including Adobe AIR(R).

RIM and Adobe are demonstrating a sneak peek of the enhanced mobile authoring workflow during the keynote address today at the 2009 BlackBerry Developer Conference. To learn more about this collaboration, developers can visit the BlackBerry(R) Developer Zone (www.blackberry.com/developers/adobe) and Adobe Developer Site (www.adobe.com/devnet).

About Adobe Flash Platform

The Adobe Flash Platform is the leading web design and development platform for creating expressive applications, content, and video that run consistently across operating systems and devices and reach over 98% of Internet-enabled desktops. According to comScore Media Metrix, approximately 75 percent of online videos viewed worldwide are delivered using Adobe Flash technology, making it the number one format for video on the web. For more information about the Adobe Flash Platform visit www.adobe.com/flashplatform.

About Adobe Systems Incorporated

Adobe revolutionizes how the world engages with ideas and information – anytime, anywhere and through any medium. For more information, visit www.adobe.com.

About Research In Motion (RIM)

Research In Motion is a leading designer, manufacturer and marketer of innovative wireless solutions for the worldwide mobile communications market. Through the development of integrated hardware, software and services that support multiple wireless network standards, RIM provides platforms and solutions for seamless access to time-sensitive information including email, phone, SMS messaging, Internet and intranet-based applications. RIM technology also enables a broad array of third party developers and manufacturers to enhance their products and services with wireless connectivity to data. RIM’s portfolio of award-winning products, services and embedded technologies are used by thousands of organizations around the world and include the BlackBerry(R) wireless platform, the RIM Wireless Handheld(TM) product line, software development tools, radio-modems and software/hardware licensing agreements. Founded in 1984 and based in Waterloo, Ontario, RIM operates offices in North America,

Europe and Asia Pacific. RIM is listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market (NASDAQ:RIMM) and the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX:RIM). For more information, visit www.rim.com or www.blackberry.com.

Look what came out of hiding! The BlackBerry Curve 8530 has just been announced officially by RIM. Not too long after it was announced we saw press releases from both Verizon and Sprint, in the United States. The new Curve 8530 sports a newer style body, with trackpad navigation, Wi-Fi, dedicated music keys and GPS. Sprint is yet to announce pricing or a release date, however Verizon says they will be launching it on November 20th for $99.99 with contract, after rebates.

Press  Release:

Verizon Wireless Introduces the BlackBerry Curve 8530 Smartphone

New Smartphone Features 3G Connectivity, Built-In Wi-Fi and GPS, Touch-Sensitive Trackpad and Dedicated Media Keys

BASKING RIDGE, N.J., and WATERLOO, Ontario – Verizon Wireless and Research In Motion (RIM) (NASDAQ: RIMM; TSX: RIM) today introduced the BlackBerry® Curve™ 8530 smartphone, an exciting new addition to the BlackBerry Curve series of smartphones. The slim BlackBerry Curve 8530 smartphone gives customers access to Verizon Wireless’ 3G network, built-in GPS and Wi-Fi capabilities, as well as easy access to music, games and other mobile apps for entertainment on the go.

Available colors: Black and Smoky Violet

Key features:

• Easy-to-use, highly tactile, full QWERTY keyboard and touch-sensitive trackpad for reliable, responsive typing and navigation
• 256 MB flash memory and 528 MHz next generation processor for enhanced performance
• Supports voice-activated dialing and Bluetooth® (version 2.1), with support for hands-free headsets, car kits, stereo headsets and other Bluetooth peripherals
• 3G-enabled (EV-DO)
• Built-in Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g)
• GPS with support for location-based applications, including geotagging pictures and Verizon Wireless’ VZ NavigatorSM service
• 2.0 megapixel digital camera with zoom and video recording*
• Advanced media player for music, pictures and videos, with dedicated media keys and a 3.5 mm stereo headset jack, plus BlackBerry® Media Sync, which makes it easy to quickly sync music from your computer to the smartphone**
• Access to BlackBerry App World™, featuring a broad and growing catalog of third-party mobile applications developed specifically for BlackBerry® smartphones. Categories include games, entertainment, social networking and sharing, news and weather, productivity and much more
• Access to e-mail, messaging (IM, SMS, MMS) and popular social networking sites (including Facebook and MySpace)
• Rich multimedia capabilities, including dedicated media keys smoothly integrated along the top of the handset, giving customers an easy, convenient way to control their music and videos
• Support for BlackBerry services with access to up to 10 supported e-mail accounts, including most popular ISP e-mail accounts such as Yahoo! ®, Windows Live™ Hotmail®, AOL® and Gmail, and BlackBerry® Enterprise Server support, which provides advanced security and IT administration features for corporate deployments
• Expandable memory via hot swappable microSD™/SDHC memory card slot, supporting up to 16 GB cards today and expected to support next generation 32 GB cards when available

Pricing and availability:

• The BlackBerry Curve 8530 smartphone is expected to be available from Verizon Wireless beginning Nov. 20 for $99.99 after a $100 mail-in rebate with a new two-year customer agreement on a voice plan with an Email and Web feature or an Email and Web for BlackBerry plan.  Customers will receive the mail-in rebate in the form of a debit card; upon receipt, customers may use the card as cash anywhere debit cards are accepted.  Data plans for the BlackBerry Curve 8530 smartphone begin at $29.99 when added to any Nationwide voice plan.
• For information on Verizon Wireless products and services, visit a Verizon Wireless Communications Store, call 1-800-2 JOIN IN or go to www.verizonwireless.com.

* Video recording requires microSD card, sold separately
** Certain music files may not be supported, including files that contain digital rights management technologies

We don’t know what took them so long, but Verizon finally announced the upcoming release of the BlackBerry Storm2 9550. Verizon says the Storm2 will be landing in stores on October 28th for $179.99 with contract, after mail-in rebates. So all is good and all the Storm chasers out there can finally get their hands-on a Verizon Storm2 later this week. Who’s going to grab one??

Here’s a quick rundown of the key features on the new Storm2:

• Smooth design and premium finish with sloped edges, chrome accents,
  glass lens and stainless steel backplate
• Large (3.25″), dazzling high-resolution 480 x 360 display at 184 ppi
• Capacitive touchscreen with integrated functions (Send, End, Menu,
  Escape) and new SurePress technology that makes clicking the display
  practically effortless
• 3G and global connectivity support for making phone calls in more than
  220 countries and accessing data in more than 185 countries (with more
  than 80 destinations in 3G)
• Network Connectivity: EV-DO Revision A; UMTS/HSPA (2100 MHz); and
  quad-band EDGE/GPRS/GSM networks
• Supports Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g)
• 256 MB of Flash memory
• 2 GB of onboard media storage and a microSD(TM)/SDHD memory card slot
  with a 16 GB card included

A Powerful New Storm Rolls Onto Verizon Wireless’ Network on Oct. 28

BASKING RIDGE, NEW JERSEY and WATERLOO, ONTARIO–(Marketwire – Oct. 26, 2009) – Verizon Wireless and Research In Motion (RIM) (NASDAQ:RIMM)(TSX:RIM) today announced that the BlackBerry(R) Storm2(TM) smartphone will be available in Verizon Wireless Communications stores, online at www.verizonwireless.com, and through business sales channels beginning Oct. 28. The BlackBerry Storm2 with BlackBerry(R) OS 5.0 evolves the BlackBerry(R) touchscreen platform with hundreds of hardware and software enhancements – including new SurePress(TM) “clickable” display technology and built-in Wi-Fi(R) – delivering the exceptional multimedia experience and communications capabilities customers have come to expect from their BlackBerry smartphones.

Key Features:

-   Smooth design and premium finish with sloped edges, chrome accents,
glass lens and stainless steel backplate
-   Large (3.25″), dazzling high-resolution 480 x 360 display at 184 ppi
-   Capacitive touchscreen with integrated functions (Send, End, Menu,
Escape) and new SurePress technology that makes clicking the display
practically effortless
-   3G and global connectivity support for making phone calls in more than
220 countries and accessing data in more than 185 countries (with more
than 80 destinations in 3G)
-   Network Connectivity: EV-DO Revision A; UMTS/HSPA (2100 MHz); and
quad-band EDGE/GPRS/GSM networks
-   Supports Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g)
-   256 MB of Flash memory
-   2 GB of onboard media storage and a microSD(TM)/SDHD memory card slot
with a 16 GB card included

Software Updates on BlackBerry Storm2:

-   Features BlackBerry OS 5.0, which includes typing accuracy and selection
improvements, as well as usability and visual enhancements such as
inertial scrolling, spin boxes that make it easier to set dates and
times, gradient shading on buttons, and more use of animation
-   BlackBerry(R) Browser is improved with faster JavaScript and CSS
processing as well as support for Gears and BlackBerry Widgets
-   Customers running BlackBerry(R) Enterprise Server 5.0 will gain the
ability to set follow-up flags, manage e-mail folders, access remote
files (Windows Shares), forward appointments, view calendar attachments,
and more

Additional Features and Specifications:

-   3.2 megapixel camera with autofocus, Image Stabilization (IS), flash and
video recording capabilities
-   Premium and easy-to-access phone features, background noise suppression
technology, loud distortion-free speakerphone and face detection
(proximity sensor) that prevents accidental clicks and blanks the screen
while the customer is on the phone
-   Media player for videos, pictures and music, plus support for BlackBerry
Desktop Manager for both PCs and Macs, and BlackBerry(R) Media Sync, for
easily syncing Windows Media(R) Player music with the smartphone(i)
-   3.5 mm stereo headset jack and dedicated volume controls
-   Bluetooth(R) (v2.1) capable with support for Secure Simple Pairing,
hands-free headsets, stereo headsets, car kits and other Bluetooth
peripherals
-   Built-in GPS for maps and other location-based applications, as well as
photo geotagging; and Verizon Wireless’ VZ Navigator(SM) service is
pre-loaded
-   V CAST Music with Rhapsody
-   Access to BlackBerry App World(TM), featuring a broad and growing
catalog of third-party mobile applications developed specifically for
BlackBerry smartphones, with categories including games, entertainment,
IM and social networking, news, weather, productivity and more
-   Support for Verizon Wireless’ Mobile Broadband Connect tethering service
-   Removable, rechargeable 1400 mAhr battery that provides up to 5.5 hours
of talk time or up to 11.2 days of standby time

Pricing and Availability:

-   The BlackBerry Storm2 smartphone is available beginning Oct. 28 for
$179.99 after a $100 mail-in rebate with a new two-year customer
agreement on a voice plan with an Email and Web feature or an Email and
Web for BlackBerry plan. Customers will receive the mail-in rebate in
the form of a debit card; upon receipt, customers may use the card as
cash anywhere debit cards are accepted. Data plans for the BlackBerry
Storm2 smartphone begin at $29.99 when added to any Nationwide voice
plan.

It’s about time really! After being leaked on to the internet for months, its finally ready for prime time. RIM officially announced the BlackBerry Bold 9700 is coming soon. Apparently the Bold 9700 will make its way to carriers around the World, including Bell, Rogers, T-Mobile, and presumably TELUS.

The new BlackBerry Bold features:

• Sleek design measuring 4.29″ x 2.36″ x 0.56″ (109 mm x 60 mm x 14.1 mm) and weighing only 4.3 oz (122 grams)
• Sharp and dazzling 2.44″ light-sensing display (480 x 360 resolution at 245 ppi)
• Highly tactile full-QWERTY keyboard – with finely sculpted keys and chrome frets – for fast, accurate typing
• Innovative touch-sensitive trackpad that allows intuitive and responsive navigation
• Built-in Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g) with support for Wi-Fi calling via UMA where available
• 3.2 MP camera with variable zoom, autofocus, flash and video recording
• BlackBerry® OS 5.0, offering users email management and calendar enhancements* as well as a better browsing experience with faster JavaScript and CSS processing
• Built-in GPS for maps and other location-based applications, as well as photo geotagging
• Media player for videos, pictures and music (music play now extended up to 38 hours), plus support for BlackBerry® Desktop Manager for both PCs and Macs, and BlackBerry® Media Sync for easily syncing iTunes® and Windows Media® Player music with the smartphone**
• 3.5 mm stereo headset jack, dedicated volume controls, Lock and Mute keys seamlessly integrated across the top of the handset
• microSD/SDHD memory card slot that supports up to 16 GB cards today and is expected to support 32 GB cards when available; a 2GB card is included
• 256 MB of Flash memory
• Access to BlackBerry App World, featuring a broad and growing catalog of mobile applications developed specifically for BlackBerry smartphones. Categories include games, entertainment, IM and social networking, news, weather, productivity and more.
• Premium and easy-to-access phone features, background noise suppression technology and high quality speakerphone
• Bluetooth® (2.1) with support for Secure Simple Pairing, hands-free headsets, stereo headsets, car kits and other Bluetooth peripherals
• Support for BlackBerry® Internet Service and BlackBerry® Enterprise Server
• Available in two versions to support various carrier 3G network frequency combinations:
  • UMTS/HSDPA 2100/1900/850/800 MHz and quad-band EDGE/GPRS/GSM
  • UMTS/HSDPA 2100/1700/900 MHz and quad-band EDGE/GPRS/GSM
• Removable, rechargeable 1500 mAhr battery that provides approximately 6 hours of talk time and 17 days of standby time in 3G mode

You can grab more details on the BlackBerry Bold 9700 at BlackBerry.com/Bold9700.

RIM Introduces the New BlackBerry Bold 9700 Smartphone

New 3G Smartphone Delivers High-End Features and Performance With a Compact and Highly Refined Design

WATERLOO, ONTARIO–(Marketwire – Oct. 21, 2009) -

Editors Note: There are two photos, one spec sheet and one video associated with this Press Release.

Research In Motion (RIM) (NASDAQ:RIMM)(TSX:RIM) today announced the sleek and powerful BlackBerry(R) Bold(TM) 9700 smartphone. The new BlackBerry Bold 9700 offers an extensive array of high-end communications and multimedia features in a compact and highly refined design that will appeal to both men and women and for both professional and personal use.

The BlackBerry Bold 9700 smartphone offers top-of-the-line performance, functionality and features with support for 3G HSDPA networks around the world, a next-generation (624 MHz) processor, 256 MB Flash memory, built-in GPS and Wi-Fi(R), a 3.2MP camera and a sharp, dazzling display. Cutting edge engineering and premium finishes extend to the exterior of the handset as well, with a smoothly integrated touch-sensitive trackpad and a highly tactile, distinctive, fretted keyboard. The dark chrome frame and leatherette back add to the new smartphone’s sleek and elegant look, while the narrow profile, balanced weight and soft-touch sides allow it to feel incredibly comfortable in one hand.

“The BlackBerry Bold 9700 builds on the success of the original BlackBerry Bold with new, state-of-the-art features and a smaller, lighter and highly optimized design that looks, feels and performs great,” said Mike Lazaridis, President and Co-CEO, Research In Motion.

Key features of the BlackBerry Bold 9700 smartphone include:

- Sleek design measuring 4.29″ x 2.36″ x 0.56″ (109 mm x 60 mm x 14.1 mm) and weighing only 4.3 oz (122 grams)

- Sharp and dazzling 2.44″ light-sensing display (480 x 360 resolution at 245 ppi)

- Highly tactile full-QWERTY keyboard – with finely sculpted keys and chrome frets – for fast, accurate typing

- Innovative touch-sensitive trackpad that allows intuitive and responsive navigation

- Built-in Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g) with support for Wi-Fi calling via UMA where available

- 3.2 MP camera with variable zoom, autofocus, flash and video recording

- BlackBerry(R) OS 5.0, offering users email management and calendar enhancements(i) as well as a better browsing experience with faster JavaScript and CSS processing

- Built-in GPS for maps and other location-based applications, as well as photo geotagging

- Media player for videos, pictures and music (music play now extended up to 38 hours), plus support for BlackBerry(R) Desktop Manager for both PCs and Macs, and BlackBerry(R) Media Sync for easily syncing iTunes(R) and Windows Media(R) Player music with the smartphone(ii)

- 3.5 mm stereo headset jack, dedicated volume controls, Lock and Mute keys seamlessly integrated across the top of the handset

- microSD/SDHD memory card slot that supports up to 16 GB cards today and is expected to support 32 GB cards when available; a 2GB card is included

- 256 MB of Flash memory

- Access to BlackBerry App World(TM), featuring a broad and growing catalog of mobile applications developed specifically for BlackBerry smartphones. Categories include games, entertainment, IM and social networking, news, weather, productivity and more.

- Premium and easy-to-access phone features, background noise suppression technology and high quality speakerphone

- Bluetooth(R) (2.1) with support for Secure Simple Pairing, hands-free headsets, stereo headsets, car kits and other Bluetooth peripherals

- Support for BlackBerry(R) Internet Service and BlackBerry(R) Enterprise Server

- Available in two versions to support various carrier 3G network frequency combinations:

– UMTS/HSDPA 2100/1900/850/800 MHz and quad-band EDGE/GPRS/GSM

– UMTS/HSDPA 2100/1700/900 MHz and quad-band EDGE/GPRS/GSM

- Removable, rechargeable 1500 mAhr battery that provides approximately 6 hours of talk time and 17 days of standby time in 3G mode

The BlackBerry Bold 9700 smartphone is expected to be available from carriers around the world beginning in November. For more information visit www.blackberry.com/bold9700.

(i) Some features require BlackBerry Enterprise Server 5.0

(ii) Certain music files may not be supported, including files that contain digital rights management technologies.

About Research In Motion

Research In Motion (RIM) is a leading designer, manufacturer and marketer of innovative wireless solutions for the worldwide mobile communications market. Through the development of integrated hardware, software and services that support multiple wireless network standards, RIM provides platforms and solutions for seamless access to time-sensitive information including email, phone, SMS messaging, Internet and intranet-based applications. RIM technology also enables a broad array of third party developers and manufacturers to enhance their products and services with wireless connectivity to data. RIM’s portfolio of award-winning products, services and embedded technologies are used by thousands of organizations around the world and include the BlackBerry(R) wireless platform, the RIM Wireless Handheld(TM) product line, software development tools, radio-modems and software/hardware licensing agreements. Founded in 1984 and based in Waterloo, Ontario, RIM operates offices in North America, Europe and Asia Pacific. RIM is listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market (NASDAQ:RIMM) and the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX:RIM). For more information, visit www.rim.com or www.blackberry.com.

It hasn’t been out too long, but today RIM updated their BlackBerry Desktop Manager for Mac. The new version is 1.0.1 and includes “important bug fixes and enhancements to your data synchronization”. You can download it now directly from the BlackBerry mac page blackberry.com/mac. Anyone out there try the new version yet? If so post a comment below and let us know how its working.

[via CrackBerry]

[via CrackBerry]

We knew it was coming, but bright and early this morning Vodafone UK and RIM announced the upcoming release of the BlackBerry Storm2. Vodafone will be releasing the Storm 9520 which will include a number of improvements over the current 9500. The new Storm2 features a upgraded Surepress touch display, Wi-Fi, 3.2 megapixel camera with auto focus, and 2GB of on board memory. The new Storm2 also features the new OS 5.0 which offers some hot new features. You can find details about the new Storm2 on the BlackBerry website here or check out Vodafone UK’s website here.

Vodafone and RIM Introduce the BlackBerry Storm2 Smartphone

Vodafone and Research In Motion (RIM) (NASDAQ:RIMM)(TSX:RIM) today introduced the BlackBerry(R) Storm2(TM) smartphone for customers in seven European countries as well as South Africa.

The second generation of RIM’s innovative and award-winning touch-screen smartphone, the BlackBerry Storm2 significantly improves the BlackBerry(R) touch-screen platform with new technology and new features to let customers stay easily connected to the people, places and things that matter most.

In the busy holiday gift buying period, customers in the UK and Ireland will be able to get the new smartphone first through Vodafone, and it will be offered exclusively by Vodafone in Germany, Netherlands and Spain. It will also be made available in France, Italy and South Africa in time for Christmas.

The BlackBerry Storm2 with BlackBerry OS 5 evolves the BlackBerry touch-screen platform with hundreds of hardware and software enhancements.

Note to editors

The BlackBerry Storm2 smartphone (model 9520) from Vodafone features:

New SurePress Technology

The BlackBerry Storm2 smartphone introduces a new SurePress(TM) technology based on an electronic system that provides the user with tactile feedback when the touch-screen is pressed. The new system responds equally to gentle pressure applied anywhere on the surface of the screen and makes clicking the display practically effortless. Typing on the smartphone’s virtual keyboards is easier, more comfortable and more accurate. The new SurePress technology also allows the user to type a letter with one thumb even while their other thumb may still be touching or resting on another letter, enabling faster typing and multi-key actions such as Shift or Alt -key combinations.

Hardware Features

- Smooth design and premium finish with sloped edges, chrome accents, glass lens and stainless steel backplate

- Large (3.25″), dazzling, high resolution 360 x 480 display at 184 ppi

- Capacitive touch-screen with integrated functions (Send, End, Menu, Escape) and new SurePress technology that makes clicking the display practically effortless

- Global connectivity support: UMTS/HSPA (2100Mhz), quad-band EDGE/GPRS/GSM and Wi-Fi(R) (802.11 b/g) networks

- 3.2 MP camera with variable zoom, autofocus, flash and video recording

- 256 MB of Flash memory

- 2 GB of onboard memory storage and a microSD/SDHD memory card slot that supports up to 16 GB cards today and is expected to support 32 GB cards when available

- Premium and easy-to-access phone features, background noise suppression technology, loud distortion-free speakerphone and face detection (proximity sensor) that prevents accidental clicks and blanks the screen while the user is on the phone

- Media player for videos, pictures and music, plus BlackBerry(R) Desktop Manager for both PCs and Macs, and BlackBerry(R) Media Sync for easily syncing iTunes(R) and Windows Media(R) Player music with the smartphone(i)

- Vodafone’s music client pre-installed, giving access to an extensive catalogue of artists

- A 3.5 mm stereo headset jack and dedicated volume controls

- Bluetooth(R) (2.1) with support for Secure Simple Pairing, hands-free headsets, stereo headsets, car kits and other Bluetooth peripherals

- Built-in GPS for maps and other location-based applications, as well as photo geotagging

- Access to BlackBerry App World(TM), featuring a broad and growing catalog of mobile applications developed specifically for BlackBerry smartphones. Categories include games, entertainment, IM and social networking, news, weather, productivity and more. Applications developed for the original BlackBerry Storm are fully compatible with the BlackBerry Storm2

- BlackBerry(R) Internet Service and BlackBerry(R) Enterprise Server support

- Removable, rechargeable 1400 mAhr battery that provides approximately 6 hours of talk time on 3G networks and 280 hours of standby time

BlackBerry OS 5

- More responsive experience and includes usability and visual enhancements such as inertial scrolling, spin boxes that make it easier to set dates and times, gradient shading on buttons and more use of animation

- Typing accuracy and selection have been significantly refined

- BlackBerry(R) Browser improved with faster JavaScript and CSS processing as well as support for Gears and BlackBerry Widgets

- Customers running BlackBerry(R) Enterprise Server 5 will gain the ability to:

– Set follow-up Flags on the handset like they can in Microsoft(R) Office Outlook(R)

– Manage Microsoft Exchange email folders (Add, Rename, Move, Delete) on the handset

– Access remote files shares (Windows Shares); Save, View, Edit, and Email documents from remote file shares

– Forward appointments and view calendar attachments on the handset

– Benefit from wireless sync improvements for Contacts, including sync for multiple contact folders, personal Distribution Lists and contacts in Public/Shared folders

(i) Certain music files may not be supported, including files that contain digital rights management technologies.

Pricing

Pricing will be announced by the individual in-country operating companies. As an indication, Vodafone UK will be offering the BlackBerry Storm2 free from GBP 35 per month on a 24-month contract that includes 600 minutes talk-time, unlimited BlackBerry Internet Service, unlimited text messaging, as well as unlimited access to VMI (Vodafone Mobile Internet) and broadband.

For more information please visit www.blackberry.com/storm.

About Vodafone

Vodafone is the world’s leading international mobile communications group with approximately 315 million proportionate customers as at 30 June 2009. Vodafone currently has equity interests in 31 countries across five continents and around 40 partner networks worldwide. For more information, please visit www.vodafone.com.

About Research In Motion

Research In Motion (RIM) is a leading designer, manufacturer and marketer of innovative wireless solutions for the worldwide mobile communications market. Through the development of integrated hardware, software and services that support multiple wireless network standards, RIM provides platforms and solutions for seamless access to time-sensitive information including email, phone, SMS messaging, Internet and intranet-based applications. RIM technology also enables a broad array of third party developers and manufacturers to enhance their products and services with wireless connectivity to data. RIM’s portfolio of award-winning products, services and embedded technologies are used by thousands of organizations around the world and include the BlackBerry(R) wireless platform, the RIM Wireless Handheld(TM) product line, software development tools, radio-modems and software/hardware licensing agreements. Founded in 1984 and based in Waterloo, Ontario, RIM operates offices in North America, Europe and Asia Pacific. RIM is listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market (NASDAQ:RIMM) and the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX:RIM). For more information, visit www.rim.com or www.blackberry.com.

Forward-looking statements in this news release are made pursuant to the “safe harbor” provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. When used herein, words such as “intend” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions made by and information available to Research In Motion Limited. Investors are cautioned that such forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements include, without limitation, possible product defects and product liability, risks related to international sales and potential foreign currency exchange fluctuations, the initiation or outcome of litigation, acts or potential acts of terrorism, international conflicts, significant fluctuations of quarterly operating results, changes in Canadian and foreign laws and regulations, continued acceptance of RIM’s products, increased levels of competition, technological changes and the successful development of new products, dependence on third-party networks to provide services, dependence on intellectual property rights, and other risks and factors detailed from time to time in RIM’s periodic reports filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission, and other regulatory authorities. RIM has no intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

The BlackBerry and RIM families of related marks, images and symbols are the exclusive properties and trademarks of Research In Motion Limited. RIM, Research In Motion and BlackBerry are registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and may be pending or registered in other countries. Wi-Fi is a registered trademark of the Wi-Fi Alliance. All other brands, product names, company names, trademarks and service marks are the properties of their respective owners. RIM assumes no obligations or liability and makes no representation, warranty, endorsement or guarantee in relation to any aspect of any third party products or services.

It’s been a long time rumored/leaked and its finally here! Today RIM released their first version of BlackBerry Desktop Manager for Mac. The new DTM allows you to create backups or restore .bbb files (the new extension for BlackBerry backups), sync personal data via address book, iCal, etc., and even your iTunes music. It was much needed, and now its finally here. To grab your copy of Desktop Manager for Mac head over to blackberry.com/mac.