N4BB Can’t Wait for BlackBerry Jam Americas 2012! (September,2012)

BlackBerry Jam Americas, previously known as DevCon, is coming up in less than two weeks. We are all expecting a huge show from our beloved BlackBerry. We know that mighty Thor otherwise known as RIM’s CEO, Thorsten Heins, will deliver the keynote, which should include a lot of goodies!All of us here at N4BB are super excited for this historical event and want to make sure you guys keep it locked here for all the BlackBerry 10 breaking news from San Jose, California. Lucas, Ross, and myself will be live from the scene with interviews, hands-on, and many more surprises. Stay tuned and keep your head up Team BlackBerry…our best days are AHEAD OF US!

‘It Doesn’t Take a Genius’ – Should RIM Play Dirty Like Samsung? (September,2012)

Research In Motion will soon be releasing its first fleet of BlackBerry 10 smartphones at the beginning of 2013. The past marketing for BlackBerry has been anything but spectacular over the years. RIM really just hasn’t had that good of persuasive skills.Should RIM take notes from Samsung? The company will be advertising the Galaxy S3 in an ad where it’s pitted against the iPhone 5. While the ad does show how the device is better than the iPhone 5 in some respects, it also includes S3-only features. It then fails to list iPhone 5-only features.It’s a bit of a dirty trick to make the Galaxy S3 seem like it’s more feature-rich than the iPhone 5. Should RIM go guns blazing with provocative marketing like this for BlackBerry 10? Check out the full ad below and let us know in the comments!via BI

How to Delete Saved WiFi Networks from your BlackBerry (September,2012)

For today’s How To I’m gonna show you how to clean up your saved WiFi networks list. Like me, you probably have a bunch of WiFi networks saved that you are never going to connect to ever again. It is always good to clean it up to make room for other networks that you might use more frequently. Here’s how to do it:1. Go to Options and select the Networks and Connections menu.2. Here, choose WiFi Networks.3. If your WiFi is off, it will prompt you to turn it on. Do it and then press the Saved WiFi Networks button.4. You’ll see a list of what probably is every WiFi network you have ever connected your BlackBerry to.5. Select the list you would like to delete, press the menu button and hit Delete.6. You’ll be asked to confirm if you want to delete the network. Press Ok if you are or Cancel if not.That’s it! If you have any questions or suggestions just leave them in the comments below.

We Thank YOU Very Much! (September,2012)

We avidly track our site’s statistical progress through varying types of analytics. Not only has this month been our biggest to date, traffic wise, but we’ve also accomplished a huge milestone.According to the analytics evaluation site, Alexa, we’ve finally become the #2 most popular BlackBerry website in the world. We just wanted to thank YOU for your readership and support.N4BB is also celebrating its 3rd birthday as of this month, when we first started out as BBLeaks. Since then, we’ve evolved into a full service news and informational site for BlackBerry. Throughout the years we’ve truly garnered some exceptional writing talent and some of the best fans!Again, we thank YOU so very much for being an N4BB reader and (hopefully) a forums member. We’ll keep doing what we do best and you keep being awesome by reading our content, standing ovation goes to you. One love Team BlackBerry!

iPhone 5 Literally Can’t Have NFC; Could Help BlackBerry 10 (September,2012)

The upcoming Apple iPhone 5 was rumored to have Near Field Communications (NFC). However, as it turns out those rumors didn’t pan out and the next iPhone will still not feature NFC capabilities.Apparently having NFC wasn’t even possible on the iPhone 5. The reason is due to the iPhone 5’s all-aluminum-and-glass body, which would block information from being transmitted to a terminal, according to Will Strauss, an analyst of Forward Concepts.“N.F.C. employs lower-frequency operation than cellular, requiring a longer antenna,” Mr. Strauss said. “That antenna is often wrapped around the battery in some cellphones, but a metal back shields any radio waves from reaching a nearby data terminal. Only plastic, Kevlar or similar backings will allow the radio connection for mobile payments. Clearly, Apple chose beauty over functionality with its aluminum back.”Strauss said it plain as day. Apple rather have a shiny looking object than a state-of-the-art mobile computing machine. Although, another theory is that Apple simply decided to leave it out since NFC hasn’t quite ‘caught on’ yet in the market.Nevertheless, as more and more mobile devices begin adding NFC capabilities the carriers may be forced to support it. This can only mean great things for RIM and the future of BlackBerry 10, who have pioneered in its mobile usage.  We’ve already seen major manufacturers such as Samsung market the Galaxy S3′s NFC capabilities. Imagine once BlackBerry 10 gets to market and RIM begins to show the incredible benefits of NFC. I think people will begin to request NFC rather than just wonder if it’s available.Stay tuned for our exclusive interview with RIM’s senior product manager of NFC, Geoffrey MacGillvray. He explains the power of NFC and how RIM intends to utilize it. If you’re unfamiliar with NFC, this is one interview you won’t want to miss!via NYT

Top 5 BlackBerry Apps for NFL Season (September,2012)

The NFL season is underway, and fans are interested in knowing how to keep up to date on the latest news surrounding their favorite teams and players. RIM has put together their own round-up of some of the best apps available for BlackBerry smartphones and BlackBerry PlayBook to help you stay on top of the game.ScoreMobile for BlackBerry: Follow your favorite teams and keep track of games in real time with ScoreMobile for BlackBerry. ScoreMobile offer more than just football, with coverage including Baseball (MLB),  Football (NFL, NCAAF, CFL), Basketball (NBA, NCAAB, NCAAWB), Hockey (NHL), Soccer (EPL/Premiership, Champions League, Series A, La Liga, MLS), Golf (PGA), Auto Racing (NASCAR Sprint Cup, F1), Tennis, Cricket (ICC, IPL), and MMA (UFC, Strikeforce). ScoreMobile is integrated with BBM so you can chat with your friends about ongoing games â€" all from within the app! Download for BlackBerry smartphones or BlackBerry PlayBook.Pro Football Insider â€" NFL News: Since 1967, Pro Football Weekly has been the leading source of NFL insider information and premium insights. Now you can enjoy the same breaking news, behind-the-scenes rumors and expert analysis that NFL executives and industry giants like ESPN, Yahoo!, CBS Sports, and Fox Sports have relied upon for years. This app includes every feature a football fan could ask for including stats, schedules and standings; the latest news, rumors, and insider information; lots of videos; and an integrated Twitter feed covering the league’s most popular players and experts. Download for BlackBerry smartphones or BlackBerry PlayBook.NFL Schedule: You’ll never miss the start of a game with the NFL Schedule app. View your favorite team’s schedule for 2012 and export it into your BlackBerry calendar. You can set reminders for each game so you never miss a kick off and you can even chose which time zone to save the schedule in. Download for BlackBerry smartphones.Fantasy Football Draft Guide 2012: Prepare for the upcoming 2012 fantasy football season with Fantasy Football Draft Guide 2012! Track 300+ players and teams throughout the pre-season, including player ranks, projections, stat history and team pass/run stats for the past 3 years. Review each player’s 2012 schedule and prepare for their bye weeks and playoff schedules. You can also create your own mock draft. Download for BlackBerry PlayBook.

Smartphone Game Developers in Latin America are Growing (September,2012)

We all know there are developers all around the world, whether they are responsible for big hits or not, but they are there working hard to bring awesome new apps and games to all of you. Sadly, not all of them get the recognition they deserve, specially Latin American developers. We always see featured games and known titles coming from the same people, but what about the guy who didn’t sleep for over 4 weeks making that awesome game that never got featured?Rock N’ Roll Game Studio made this cool infographic about Smartphone Gaming in Latin America. Some of you might not know this, but some applications stores won’t even let certain Latin American countries publish paid apps to their stores. How do they expect developers to feel motivated when they can’t even earn money for their work? Of course, they could publish a free app with ads, but we hate having ads in our apps. I’d rather pay $2 for an app that having the same thing  for free but filled with ads.Here’s one of the many reasons why we love RIM: They have always shown support to ALL their developers. They host events constantly focused on guiding, helping and motivating developers to create BlackBerry apps. They even hosted one (very small) developer conference here in Dominican Republic! Oh, and you can publish a paid app no matter where you are. Take that *insert applications store name here*. Anyway, check out the infographic below and let us know your thoughts, we also want to hear from all the Latin American devs who read us. 

Indonesia You Can’t Let Android Overtake BlackBerry! (September,2012)

In a recent article, we speculated if the Philippines would become the next ‘BlackBerry Nation’. A title which is currently held by Indonesia. BlackBerry has been so popular in Indonesia that Research In Motion setup the former DevCon Asia (now BB Jam Asia) in Jakarta.However, a recent study conducted by the International Data Company (IDC) shows that Android now claimed a 52 percent market share of the Indonesian operating system market in the second quarter of this year. Android has allegedly taken away the #1 spot from BlackBerry.“The increase in shipments of Android-based phones in Indonesia is driven not just by its affordability, but also due to its broad range of applications and the overall growing popularity of touchscreens,” Darwin Lie, an analyst from IDC, said. Lie also stated that “the delay in the launch of the BlackBerry 10, has also contributed to the change in OS preference.”Additionally, the IDC predicts that BlackBerry shipments in Indonesia would reach 8 million units in 2015, while Android would reach 10 million units. This is truly unfortunate speculation. Nevertheless, Team BlackBerry users in Indonesia you have the power to keep BlackBerry alive. BlackBerry 10 isn’t that far away and the wait will be worth it. Keep hope alive.via Jakarta Post

First Ever BlackBerry’s Codename Given by Jim Balsillie? (September,2012)

For this edition of WTFact, we’d like to tell you how the very first BlackBerry had the codename ‘Leapfrog’. Codenames are interesting to examine as they sometimes give clues as to what the product might be.For instance, you could follow the trail of the Torch 9800 as all of its codenames started with the letter ‘T’ (i.e. Mr T, Talladega, etc.). Nonetheless, a staple point phrase given by former RIM co-CEO, Jim Balsillie, was that the latest BlackBerry product would always “leapfrog” the competition.Perhaps Jim himself was the one to give the very first BlackBerry its codename? All jokes aside, how do you think RIM goes about giving codenames to its products?

The Bard’s Tale for BlackBerry PlayBook Now Available (September,2012)

We previously told you that inXile Entertainment would soon be releasing the popular game The Bard’s Tale soon on the BlackBerry PlayBook. That day is here as it is now available for purchase on BlackBerry App World for $5.99.The Bard’s Tale is a full-scale massive 3D epic role-playing game. You are the Bard, a selfish rogue weary of pointless sub-quests and rat-infested cellars. Through magical song you summon characters to join you in battle, heal your party, and take damage on your behalf.Features of The Bard’s Tale include:50 enemy types (not counting bosses!)A vast world to explore with towns, wild forests, rivers, castles, towers, secret dungeons, snowy mountains, caverns, haunted tombs and moreA full cast of bizarre NPC’sOver a dozen special boss enemies to defeat16 magical characters to discover and then summon at will to aid youOver 150 unique items of weaponry, armor, instruments, tokens, artifacts and loot!More Song & Dance numbers than any other game, including a zombie dance-off!Over 14 hours of outstanding voice-acting from top Hollywood talent, including Cary Elwes (The Princess Bride) as the Bard, and the inimitable Tony Jay as the NarratorThat’s not all! You get these great new additions in the BlackBerry version:Autosaveâ€"option to save automatically when you near a save-book in game.Time-Saversâ€"optional in-app purchases are available to pump up your Bard and save you time! (Note: All such items are attainable through normal game-play, with time and persistence, just as in the original console release.)Includes the original classic game The Bard’s Tale I: Tales of the Unknown! 2 & 3 coming soon! (Supports Bluetooth keyboard and mouse)Buy The Bard’s Tale for $5.99 in BlackBerry App World >>Note: This game is huge in file size. Installation over Wi-Fi can temporarily require as much as 3.2GB of free space on your device (for compressed download + uncompressed install). 

Can BlackBerry 10 Compete Against the iPhone 10?! (September,2012)

Here’s some mid-day humor for you. Picking fun at the addition of a fifth row of icons on the Apple iPhone 5, alas we see the first photo of the iPhone 10! I’m not sure if people could handle such a phallus looking object, literally.Could the iPhone 10 be BlackBerry 10′s biggest competitor in the mobile space? It’s hard to say at this point, but one thing is certain. You could totally use the iPhone 10 for some very practical, real-world things as: a baseball bat, walking cane, spear, and potentially more.BlackBerry 10 on the other hand will just remain a badass mobile tool.

Verizon Wireless CFO: ‘Don’t Count RIM Out Yet’ (September,2012)

Yesterday was Apple’s big day, where they officially announced the new iPhone 5, iPod Nano, iPod Touch, and more. Although, some are skeptical about Apple’s dominance in the mobile space.When asked about Verizon keeping its options open to different operating systems in light of the Apple versus Samsung case, Verizon Wireless Chief Financial Officer Francis J. Shammo said to not count RIM out yet.“Don’t count RIM out yet, they could come back to the marketplace with an innovate product.” This innovative product he’s referencing is BlackBerry 10. RIM is doing their best to make BlackBerry 10 an advanced platform for mobile devices and beyond.Additionally, Shammo felt that Microsoft still has potential to make a mark with its Windows Phone operating system. ”Obviously Microsoft has a hold in the enterprise space and there really is no reason why they – if this is a good product, there is no reason why they can win in that space,” said Shammo.This is great news for RIM. Having the CFO, of the largest wireless carrier in the US, saying to not rule out RIM is huge. Once BlackBerry 10 is released it will most certainly be interesting to watch how the carriers let BB10 and Windows Phone 8 battle it out.via Street Insider 

BlackBerry’s ‘BBM’ Recognized in Collins English Dictionary (September,2012)

Didn’t think that BlackBerry Messenger, aka BBM, was that popular? When Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt won the 100m final at the 2012 London Olympics, he said on a live TV interview, ”All I gotta do is thank a few people on my BBM with my congrats and that’s pretty much it.”Other celebrities have spread the awareness of BBM’s popularity with music artists Tinie Tempah and Sean Kingston having both mentioned BBM in their respective songs, ‘Miami to Ibiza’ and ‘BBM’.BBM garners nearly 60 million users. This is roughly 70% of all BlackBerry users will utilize the BBM feature. As such, with the global awareness of the term BBM it has officially entered modern-day vernacular, leading to the announcement that it will be included in the latest edition of the Collins English Dictionary.BBM’s inclusion in the Collins English dictionary “recognises its status as one of the world’s most popular mobile social networks,” said T.A. McCann, the vice president of BBM at  Research In Motion. ”In recent years, the term ‘BBM’ has transcended its technological origins to become a brand that is part of the everyday language of millions of people all over the world,” McCann said.“The service itself continues to evolve, with ‘BBMers’ able to share content, create groups and even post status updates to other social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter directly from the BBM app. We’re honored that a word used daily by millions of our customers has been officially welcomed into the English language.”So how cool is that? RIM’s iconic BlackBerry product now has two words officially recognized in dictionaries. What other words/phrases/acronyms should be included in the dictionary? Give us your suggestions in the comments!via DS

Facebook for BlackBerry 3.2.0.12 Now Available in App World (September,2012)

RIM let us know they have announced that Facebook for BlackBerry Smartphones version 3.2.0.12 is now available in BlackBerry App World. The latest updates to Facebook for BlackBerry makes it easier to connect with friends, plan events, celebrate birthdays and share your news while on the go.The new Facebook for BlackBerry version 3.2.0.12 includes:Enhanced Birthday Feature:Customize how your BlackBerry smartphone will integrate birthdays into your calendar. Receive a friendly daily reminder, with the ability to directly write on a friend’s wall to wish them Happy Birthday.Improved Event Management:View Facebook event information and RSVP to events, as well as post comments to an event wall, view profiles of invited guests and receive event notifications.Updated Navigation Grid:Quickly and easily access key features such as your News Feed and Profile with updated icons. The Profile icon is now your current profile picture for a personalized touch.You can catch the update available now in BlackBerry App World here.

Official: BlackBerry Torch 9850 OS 7.1.0.649 from China Telecom (September,2012)

BlackBerry Torch 9850 users are getting an OS update today. China Telecom has officially released OS 7.1.0.649 for the Torch 9850. If you’ve already installed the leaked version , then there is no need to re-install this version. Nevertheless, let us know how it performs for you.Download Torch 9850 OS 7.1.0.649 from China TelecomThanks Roy!Make sure you join our community to share your thoughts on this!How to: load an OS on your BlackBerry

OrganizeMe! for the PlayBook Updated to Version 2.0.1 (September,2012)

A couple of weeks ago we told you about a pretty cool app called OrganizeMe! which is an awesome Springpad client for the PlayBook. The application has been updated to version 2.0.1, including some bug fixes and improvements. Here’s the change log:added: links inside notes finally workadded: reworked display of photo objectsbugfix: close-button is completely visible again in attachments dialogbugfix: saving tasks is now possible againbugfix: saving appointments is now possible againupdated: french localizationOrganizeMe! is currently available in App World for just $2.99.

BlackBerry 10 Screen Resolution is Better than iPhone 5 (September,2012)

In today’s keynote from Apple, where they announced the new iPhone 5, the company revealed the screen resolution. Despite the iPhone 5′s screen being a ‘retina display’ it will only support 1136 x 640 at 326PPI.The iPhone 5′s retina display is still not at a 16:9 aspect ratio. Additionally, the new iPhone 5 screen resolution creates fragmentation in their line-up. However, Apple says if an app is not set to the new resolution standard it will be centered and black borders will encompass it to make it look normal.In case you weren’t already aware, we wanted to reiterate the fact that the first BlackBerry 10 all-touch device (L-Series) will sport a significantly higher screen resolution than the iPhone 5. The L-Series will have a screen resolution of 1280 x 768 with 356PPI.Eventually, RIM plans to have their all-touch devices sport a 1280 x 720 resolution, which will help thwart fragmentation for apps across the L and N-Series. While it is debatable if your eyes can actually tell the difference between the two (L-Series screen versus iPhone 5′s retina display), one thing remains true. As pointed out in our opinion piece, most HD content is available at 720p. The iPhone 5 will not be able to display it proportionally, unlike the BlackBerry 10 all-touch device(s).This is just one of many reasons to wait it out until BlackBerry 10 smartphones release in Q1 2013. While it seems Apple is taking a page right out of RIM’s history with minimal innovation, BlackBerry has once again snowballed into an aggressive player in the mobile space. Do you think BlackBerry 10′s higher screen resolution will matter to the average consumer? Sound off in the comments!

Twitter for BlackBerry 3.2.0.7 Now Available in Beta Zone (September,2012)

Research In Motion has issued another update to Twitter for BlackBerry 3.2 in the BlackBerry Beta Zone. The new version 3.2.0.7 of Twitter for BlackBerry has the following changelog:Duplicate Tweets in timelineIf you save a picture that was embedded in an email (not attached), you are unable to Tweet photo later. States “Could not process image”Duplicate list created – can’t be deletedUser name is clipped and Thai characters visible on the background when typed English User Name and Password on the Text box fieldIf you’re already enrolled in this beta program you can get the update from Beta Zone here.

WATCH: Hilarious iPhone 5 Parody Video (September,2012)

The Apple iPhone 5 is going to be announced today. If the leaks are at all credible, the iPhone 5 looks hardly like a big update from its predecessors. It is my opinion that we’re seeing the decline of Apple. An almost repeat of history, as Apple hasn’t been very innovative over the last few years (are they riding the high horse like RIM?).Nonetheless, as we pick on other mobile brands in similar fashion as they do to BlackBerry, we thought you should see this video before the iPhone 5 announcement. Mondo has created this hilarious iPhone 5 parody video. Check it out and let us know what you think. On a BlackBerry? Click here for mobile YouTube videoThanks Stephen!

BlackBerry is First Smartphone for Physical Access Badge Replacement with HID Global (September,2012)

Near Field Communications (NFC) enabled BlackBerry smartphones have been leading the way in mobile payments and RIM is bringing that leadership into the enterprise. BlackBerry was first to be certified for Visa mobile payments, first to be certified for MasterCard for mobile payments, and now BlackBerry is first for physical access badge replacement with HID Global; the world’s leading provider of physical access technology.Late last week HID Global announced the availability of Secure Identity Servicesâ„¢, a comprehensive suite of web-based services for managing physical access credentials (read the HID press release for more info). Secure Identity Services is the enterprise’s first all-in-one web-based solution for credential provisioning and management. The platform provides businesses with the tools to create, use, and manage identities for traditional badges on plastic cards, for tokens, and for digital credentials on NFC-enabled BlackBerry smartphones beginning with models on the Verizon Wireless network: the BlackBerry Bold 9930 and the BlackBerry Curve 9370.RIM has been dedicated to mobilizing and securing solutions to the challenges that organizations face since the launch of BlackBerry in 1999. Concerning physical access, RIM began with the BlackBerry Smart Card Reader, which provides secure access to your BlackBerry smartphone and computer, and have now RIM has worked closely with HID Global to bring this expertise to physical access credentials.Check out more on RIM and HID Global’s team-up in the Inside BlackBerry Business blog post here.

Talk Oktoberfest Bavarian Phrasebook App Released for BlackBerry (September,2012)

S4BB Limited let us know they have released a brand new application series on occasion of the Oktoberfest in Bavaria, Germany this month: Talk Oktoberfest Bavarian Phrasebooks! Each Phrasebook contains over 50 useful phrases divided over 6 categories in spoken and written Bavarian. From ordering a drink to flirting, thanks to Talking Oktoberfest Bavarian, you have the right sentences always at hand. Thanks to the integrated search function you’ll be able to find the right sentence in the blink of an eye. Once cached, the sentence can be played without the need for an internet connection.Talk Oktoberfest Bavarian is available for $1.99 at BlackBerry App World and compatible with all BlackBerry Smartphones running OS 6.0 and up & Tablet OS 2.0 and up. The following source languages are available:Cantonese/ 廣東話 Dutch/ Nederlands English French/ FrançaisGerman/ DeutschJapanese/ 日本語Mandarin/ 普通话Thai/ ภาษาไทย

BlackBerry 10 App Switching, Active Frames, and More Demoed (Video) (September,2012)

While we’ve seen some leaked images of the BlackBerry 10 app switcher and active frames, we haven’t seen them live. A new video has leaked out from a BlackBerry 10 World Tour event.In the video, the presenter is showing the new BlackBerry UI including Active Frames, App Switching, Clock and Stopwatch App, and more. Check it out below and let us know what you think. Thanks Martin! via MacBerry.de

BlackBerry Enterprise IM for BES Released by RIM (September,2012)

Research In Motion has released new Enterprise IM clients for Microsoft Office Communications Server, IBM Lotus Sametime, and Novell GroupWise Messenger. The Enterprise IM nearly resembles BlackBerry Messenger.BlackBerry enterprise instant messaging clients allow organization’s end users to take their messaging with them while they’re on the goâ€"regardless of the enterprise communication platform they use.In order to run these IM clients, you must be on a BlackBerry Enterprise Server or it will not work. You can download them from BlackBerry App World:Enterprise IM for Microsoft Office Communications ServerEnterprise IM for IBM Lotus SametimeEnterprise IM for Novell GroupWise MessengerThanks @rr_yy!

Pick Your Favorite Developer for the 2012 BlackBerry Developer Community Awards (September,2012)

BlackBerry Jam Americas is only 2 weeks away and now is your time to vote for your favorite BlackBerry developer. RIM has announced the 2012 BlackBerry Developer Community Awards, a community-based recognition program that relies on you.There are six categories to nominate your favorite developer. The finalists will be selected on September 18th and polls will be opened for voting. The winners will then be announced on September 26th. The awarding ceremony will take place at the BlackBerry Jam Americas TweetUp, located in the BlackBerry Social Lounge from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.Here are the categories:Must-Follow BlackBerry Developer on TwitterMust-Read BlackBerry Developer BlogMust-See BlackBerry Developer EvangelistMost Helpful BlackBerry Team Member on TwitterMost Helpful Contributor to the BlackBerry Developer ForumsBest Open Source ContributionHere’s how to nominate:Through the online form, orvia Twitter. (Just send a tweet that mentions @BlackBerryDev, the #BBDevAwards hashtag, and the category.)And here’s the timeline:Now â€" September 16th: Open nominationsSeptember 18th â€" September 25th: Open votingSeptember 26th: Winners announced at BlackBerry Jam Americas TweetUpIf you have any further questions or for more details check out the BlackBerry Developers Blog post on it here. Now go start nominating your favorite developers!

The Story Behind BlackBerry 10 Screen Resolutions (September,2012)

BlackBerry 10 is going to be a revolution in terms of Research in Motion’s BlackBerry smartphones: new platform, new developer tools, new user interface, and pretty much new everything else. The new set of developer tools are simply head-and-shoulders above what they used to be, a blessing for most developers.  Yet to avoid fragmentation and more work for developers, RIM has decided to enlighten developers on their plans for the screen resolutions of future BlackBerry 10 smartphones.We know from the state-of-the-art screen of the BlackBerry 10 Dev Alpha that the first BlackBerry 10 L-Series smartphone will have a screen resolution of 1280 x 768, giving an aspect ratio of 15:9.  RIM has also revealed that the BlackBerry 10 N-Series QWERTY keyboard smartphone will have a screen resolution of 720 x 720, giving a simple aspect ratio of 1:1.In an effort to standardize the screen screen resolutions of future BlackBerry smartphones, RIM has stated that pure touchscreen BlackBerry 10 smartphones will use the 1280 x 720 standard screen resolution.  This makes sense for a few reasons.  First, it’s the same aspect ratio of your HDTV, 16:9.  Second, most of the high-definition content available comes in at 720p, which matches the 1280 x 720 screen resolution that RIM is aiming for.  As for the N-Series, its pretty much matching the horizontal dimensions of the L-Series so that most apps will only have to adjust vertical proportions of the user interface.Now, you might be wondering why the first BlackBerry 10 smartphone has a different, and particularly higher screen resolution.  The primary reason for this is because the design and components of the first L-series smartphone were finalized before any of this 720p standard was set in stone.Despite all this, the user experience shouldn’t suffer in the least.  The difference between 720 and 768 horizontal pixels is pretty negligible, (about 2.6 mm) on the Dev Alpha’s screen.  Also, RIM’s native and web development tools typically sort out this difference for you if you use relative dimensions in creating the user interface.  As for games, they can run at 1280 x 720 on a 1280 x 768 screen without too much hassle.  In general, most people will hardly notice the difference between the two screens side by side anyway.Of course, porting games over to the N-Series from the L-Series specifications will be challenging because of the completely different aspect ratio to contend with.  Then again, games aren’t the first priority of those interested in a BlackBerry with a (non-slider) full QWERTY keyboard.This is good news for both developers and consumers.  Developers don’t have to re-jig their app’s user interface for every BlackBerry device out there, and this in turn means consumers should be able to get the app they want across any of the available BlackBerry smartphones.You can check out RIM’s official developer blog on BlackBerry 10 screen resolutions here.

Dev Alpha OS 10.0.6.670 Now Available for Developers (September,2012)

A new BlackBerry Dev Alpha OS update has been released for Developers! OS 10.0.6.670 is now available and though we don’t know for sure what’s new, we can assure you it brings some bug fixes and minor improvements. Make sure you download this build and let us know if you find anything new.via CB

Free WWF Seafood Guide Now Available for BlackBerry (September,2012)

Are you a seafood lover, but are worried about putting the enviroment and sea life population in danger? There’s a new app that’ll help you with that. WWF Indonesia has created a Seafood Guide application with which you can find and pick the best seafood without putting in danger its population by providing fish stock condition, fishing area information, and how it is produced. The application is currently available in App World free of charge.Download WWF Seafood Guide >>via TechinAsia

How to Check Storage Left on your BlackBerry (September,2012)

Your BlackBerry storage is and should always be very important to you. If you have too many apps or files and the storage is too full, your BlackBerry’s performance could suffer a noticeable decrease. It is always good to keep an eye out on your storage, and here’s how to do it:1. Go to Options and select the Device option from the menu.2. Scroll down until you find the Storage option and select it.
3. This screen shows your BlackBerry’s internal and external storage. The Application Storage is the space you’ve got left for installing apps. The Built-in Media Storage is the space you’ve got left for files and media on your BlackBerry. The Media Card Storage is the space you’ve got left on your external microSD card.Make sure you always keep an eye on these, specially the Application Storage and delete apps that you don’t use to make room for other new apps. If you have any questions or suggestions leave them in the comments below!

Get Your Adventure on with “The Odyssey HD” (September,2012)

Adventure game enthusiasts, this one’s for you.   The Odyssey HD is out for the BlackBerry PlayBook, giving you a chance to relive the mythical story of Ulysses and become a hero all from the comfort of you living room couch.  For only 2.99$ (it’s on sale for limited time!), its up for grabs in the PlayBook’s App World.   Word on the street is that its quite a good game.Check out the full description below:Step into this epic point-and-click mythical adventure game and see what it takes to be the Greek hero Odysseus (Ulysses)! Get ready to embark on a journey filled with danger, mythical creatures and ancient Gods. Thrilling moments and unexpected twists as well as the evil presence of legendary creatures dominate this mythical game throughout.You will have to step into the shoes of Odysseus (Ulysses) and his journey home after the fall of Troy. It took him ten years to reach Ithaca after the ten- year Trojan War. Become a part of Homer’s original myth and educate yourself during the process.Beware, this is no simple task. You will have to escape from the Goddess Calypso’s island, blind Cyclops Polyphemus, face the witch-Goddess Circe, go to the land of the dead in search of an oracle, avoid the Siren mermaids, pass between the six-headed monster Scylla and the whirlpool Charybdis and visit the Sun God’s island. Finally, you will have to murder the suitors and get together with your beloved wife, Penelope and your fearless son Telemachus.• Huge and classic point-and-click adventure game.• Be part of Homer’s epic story and educate yourself by playing.• Face ancient Gods, Sirens, Cyclops and other monsters.• Beautifully hand drawn cartoons (HD), humorous dialogues and challenging puzzles.• Short animation synopsis for educational purposes.• Fully translated into English, German, French and Greek.Pictures: Courtesy of CB Forums

BBM Music Service Provider, Omniphone, Sees Tremendous Growth (September,2012)

Omnifone, a provider of cloud-based digital music services to RIM for BBM Music and others, have reported its first annual profit today. Omniphone reported operating cash flow of $6.1 million for the fiscal year ended April 30. Revenue rose 118 percent to $47.2 million.“Profitability and the increase in revenue are a result of the successful launch of three global services in just 12 months, including Sony Music Unlimited, rara.com and RIM’s BBM Music,” the company said.“We have experienced fantastic momentum on all fronts over the past year and have achieved profitability as a result,” said Omnifone CEO Jeff Hughes. “The growth of smartphones, connected devices and the availability of high-speed connectivity has led to an increased demand for cloud-based music services, opening up a land grab opportunity for the digital music industry.”While Research In Motion has been relatively mum on the success of BBM Music, perhaps they’re secretly doing quite well. Nonetheless, it is great to hear about the success of a company who has been directly influenced by BlackBerry users.via Hollywood Reporter

Could the Philippines be the Next ‘BlackBerry Nation’? (September,2012)

The current ‘BlackBerry Nation’ title holder is undoubtedly Indonesia. There was even an unintentional mosh pit during the release of the BlackBerry Bold 9790. Imagine if users across North America and Europe still lined up the streets to get their hands on the first BlackBerry devices.However, it seems Indonesia may have a new contender for the title. The same trend is beginning to show within the Philippines. While the iPhone and Android devices are popular, they have yet to beat the popularity of BlackBerry with its cheap monthly plans.For example, Globe offers the BlackBerry Curve 8520 handset for PhP 6,990 (US$ 168) as a prepaid kit. The cheapest BBM-only prepaid plan goes for PhP 99 per month (US$ 2.38). Messaging or social plans are at PhP 299 per month (US$ 7.20), while a full-fledged BIS plan with mobile web, email, chat and social apps cost PhP 599 monthly (US$ 14.40), good for both prepaid and contract plans.Can the “texting capital of the world” become the new ‘BlackBerry Nation’? There is growing concern BlackBerry may see a bite in usage as Indonesian carriers reportedly plan to introduce unlimited cross-platform messaging plans. Nevertheless, one thing remains true, if you’re in the need for a powerful messaging tool, nothing beats a BlackBerry with BBM.via e27

Kim Kardashian Shows Off Her Gold BlackBerry Bold 9900 (September,2012)

That exclusive gold BlackBerry Bold 9900, which can currently be won from BlackBerry UK, has made its way to America. Kim Kardashian tweeted late last night that she “Can’t sleep…setting up my new black & gold blackberry!”RIM cannot get any better free press than that. Now I ain’t sayin’ she’s a gold digger, but she ain’t messing with no broke berries. Currently, there doesn’t seem to be a price tag for this gold Bold 9900. However, if you’re really interested in purchasing one like it for yourself at £999, you can hit up Amosu.Thanks Cam!

Top Entertainment Apps for PlayBook and BlackBerry (September,2012)

This past Thursday marked the beginning of the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) and BlackBerry is proud to be one of this year’s sponsors.  Want to follow all the buzz and celebrities, read fanreviews of movies showing in your area or watch new releases on-the-go?  BlackBerry has pulled together a list of the top entertainment apps for your BlackBerry smartphone or BlackBerry PlayBook to help keep you in the know.  To find out more about the BlackBerry sponsorship at TIFF you can visit www.blackberry.com/ tifffestival .The official BlackBerry TIFF app is 2012’s interactive guide to the Toronto International Film Festival. Featuring a complete list of films with screening times and locations, you can build your personal list of must-see favorites. The app provides addresses, maps and directions for all venues as well as daily Festival highlight photos. Available from BlackBerry App World, join the conversation and follow the buzz of what’s happening and where at TIFF!The official BlackBerry Video Store app for the BlackBerry PlayBook gives users access to a video catalogue filled with thousands of movies and television shows, with new releases to be made available for purchase or rent the same day they come out on DVD. Available for US and Canadian residents the BlackBerry Video Store app can be downloaded for free from BlackBerry App World. Watch new releases or download old favorites when you’re on the go with the BlackBerry PlayBook tablet’s vivid display. With a built-in HDMI connection you can also easily plug your BlackBerry PlayBook into your HDTV to enjoy videos at home!Available in both English and French, the ultimate Cineplex app connects movie lovers toshowtimes for every theatre in Canada as well as the latest entertainment news, exclusive trailers, footage and interviews. Scene members can sync their cards to earn points or check balances on-the-go. Available fromBlackBerry App World , the Cineplex app allows you to buytickets for Cineplex theatres on both your BlackBerry smartphone and BlackBerry PlayBook.  Connect with Canada’s only entertainment rewards program with the BlackBerry Cineplex app!The official Flixster app brings together movie reviews from Rotten Tomatoes with maps, phone numbers, ticket info and showtimes for theatres in the USA, UK, Canada, or Australia straight to your BlackBerry smartphone or BlackBerry PlayBook. Available from BlackBerry App World, the app allows you to browse for movies by title, director, or actor in a DVD catalog of over 50,000 movies. No more waiting in box office lines with ‘the top movie app for Facebook’, Flixster also allows you to purchase movie tickets directly from movietickets.com!Discover high-quality trailers and fan movie ratings with the Fandango app. Find theatres closest to your location using BlackBerry’s GPS and the app will connect with BlackBerry Maps to navigate you to the theatre. Tickets for more than 16,000 movie screens can be purchased by signing into a Fandango account or securely store credit card information to your device â€" it’s your choice! Available from BlackBerry App World, Fandango allows for ultimate browsing with its “Now Playing, “Opening This Week” and “Top Box Office” movie carousel.Get the latest entertainment news and gossip with the E! News Now app for BlackBerry. Access breaking entertainment news and videos you can’t live without. The app delivers over a dozen video reports daily, bringing you the latest scoop on your favorite celebs, hottest red carpet events and the most anticipated films. Available from BlackBerry App World, the E! News Now app gives you the inside take on what’s happening on and off screen at this year’s Toronto International Film Festival.

White BlackBerry Bold 9900 Coming to WIND Mobile (September,2012)

WIND Mobile of Canada will soon be releasing the BlackBerry Bold 9900, but this time around in white. According to the leaked slide, the white Bold 9900 will cost roughly $99.99 on WINDTab or $549,99 outright.The white Bold 9900 will apparently release on September 11th. Any of you you WIND users interested in the white BlackBerry Bold 9900?via MobileSyrup

Thorsten Heins to Give Opening Keynote at BlackBerry Jam Americas (September,2012)

Research in Motion (RIM) is set to host their “BlackBerry Jam Americas” conference in San Jose on September 25th-27th, drawing thousands of developers to learn everything about making apps for the new BlackBerry 10 platform.   RIM’s CEO, Thorstein Heins will not only be attending the event, but also giving the opening keynote much like in similar events like “BlackBerry Dev Con Europe” a while ago.  This will conclude RIM’s world-wide tour showcasing the tools for the new platform, catering to devs to bring as many apps as possible to the launch of the first BlackBerry 10 smartphone in about 5 months.Apps from BlackBerry 7 and older won’t work with the new BlackBerry 10 platform. This is why the event is quite important for RIM, as they need populate BlackBerry App World with as many high-quality apps as possible in order to compete with the likes of the industry giants, Apple and Google.Despite not being the most captivating speaker of all time, Thorsten Heins has come across as a very straight-talking, confident and capable CEO.  His tenure as CEO has strengthened the perception of RIM’s management, which was seen as weak and deluded prior to his promotion.The opening keynote is where RIM usually announces or unveils new BlackBerry products or services, so the event could make for an exciting watch when Thorsten is onstage.  With only weeks away from the event, do you think Thorsten Heins will reveal the BlackBerry 10 smartphone?   Let us know what you think in the comments below! 

Hit iOS Indie Game ‘Super Hexagon’ Coming Soon to BlackBerry 10 (September,2012)

Terry Cavanagh, the indie game developer behind the hit iOS title ‘Super Hexagon’, is thinking about venturing to other platforms. So far, Super Hexagon has sold “way beyond expectations, actually. It’s sold about 10,000 copies in three days, and has been in the top 25 on the iPhone charts,” Cavanagh said, in response to a question about the game’s performance on the App Store.Word seems to be spreading among developers that BlackBerry is still a viable platform. ”For other platforms, right now I’m hoping to do an Android port, and PC and Mac ports. And a friend of mine has a Blackberry playbook, so I might give that a shot too for the hell of it,” Cavanagh said.While Cavanagh didn’t give a tentative release date, we can at least expect to see Super Hexagon on the BlackBerry platform in the future. Hopefully more developers of highly addictive games will begin to see it truly is in their best interest to port their games to BlackBerry 10. This is especially true since one iOS developer has even made a walk-through porting guide.via Pocket Gamer

BlackBerry was ‘on Set’ at 2012 TIFF (September,2012)

The Toronto International Film Festival happened this past week in none other than Toronto, Canada. Research In Motion made sure that BlackBerry was on hand with a BlackBerry booth.TIFF even had a BlackBerry app. The TIFF official app is slick and reasonably robust, with film information and schedules that can be displayed by date, title or festival program, maps showing the location of each venue, lots of candid photos and the ability to share what you’re seeing via Twitter, Facebook and Foursquare. There’s no way to actually buy movie tickets via the app, sadly, but it’s a great pocket-friendly resource for most of the information you need.Check out all of the TIFF goodness with the BlackBerry app by downloading it for free from BlackBerry App World here.via Toronto Sun