Opera Mini Browser 7 Released for BlackBerry (June,2012)

Opera has released a new update to the popular 3rd party browser. With Opera Mini 7 you get a few new bug fixes and a feature called Smart Page, which shows a summary of all the news from your Facebook and Twitter feeds. The Opera browser doesn’t quite score as high as the BlackBerry native browser found in OS 6+, but it does offer superior compression, which can be good for those with limited data plans.To get the new Opera Mini Browser 7 update, simply point your BlackBerry to http://m.opera.com and download.

RIM Builds Mystery Building; Could it be Project GoldenEye? (June,2012)

No, 007 isn’t working for Research In Motion. Though, if he were, the company might not be taking a beating at the moment. However, some time ago, there were whispers of a ‘project GoldenEye’. No, RIM isn’t trying to take over the world with a satellite capable of shooting a death-dealing EMP (but that’d be pretty badass if they were!).In fact, the project GoldenEye was rumored to be a big server cloud facility with military-grade specs. Nevertheless, a new mystery building resembling such rumors has finally been erected and “A number of people from varying business units are housed there,” says Rebecca Freiburger, corporate communications manager at RIM.The mystery building isn’t close to RIM’s main Waterloo campus at Phillip and Columbia streets. The new building is a three-story brick building with large windows and a glass atrium looms amid the trees of nearby Laurel Creek. The building is unmarked with any company information and is a bit secluded. Freiburger says, “It was decided a sign was unnecessary as there isn’t a need for visitors to know its location.”Although, the Colliers International’s office market report for the first quarter of 2012 gives a clue that the 7,340-square-metre building was meant to be RIM’s headquarters. John Lind, a commercial real estate agent with the local Colliers office, says “I did hear it was supposed to be an executive office or think tank, but I don’t think its use has ever been clearly defined.”What do you think this new building could be? Will the 560 Westmount building be RIM’s new headquarters, a think-tank, or the illusive server farm rumored to be called project GoldenEye?via TheRecord

Texas Company Alleges RIM Infringes on 5 Patents (June,2012)

Mobile Telecommunications Technologies, LLC, a company based in Lewisville, Texas says that Research In Motion has infringed on several of their patents. The company says they own a portfolio of former SkyTel Communications technology, and RIM infringes on five patents.Mobile Telecommunications Technologies, LLC says the patents cover several software functions including those that store and resend undelivered data messages, that handle call back numbers, and which allow a server to process extra-large emails. The BlackBerry calendar also allegedly infringes a patent that covers pre-written messages.The company seeks an injunction against RIM’s use of the technology and unspecified damages. The patents were apparently registered between 1996 and 1999, and Mobile Telecommunications Technologies, LLC claims they were pioneers in wireless communications “and [are] credited with launching the world’s first two-way wireless paging service, dubbed SkyTel 2-Way.” Of course, Mobile Telecommunications Technologies, LLC jut now wants to sue RIM after all this time.via TheStar

Comment on N4BB Articles Using Twitter! (June,2012)

We’ve made it even easier to make your voice heard. If you don’t have the time to login to your N4BB account or make an anonymous comment on our site, fret no longer. As long as the article’s link is in your tweet, it will be automatically posted to that article.It’s as simple as that to give your two cents on the matter. Our system then scans Twitter every 15 minutes for any new tweets to add. But, as always, we’d prefer you to join N4BB for free to take advantage of our sweet contests and forums! If you’re feeling dangerous, go ahead and try it out for yourself with this post if you’d like.

Official: BlackBerry Torch 9860 OS 7.1.0.428 from Telstra (June,2012)

Telstar has officially released OS 7.1.0.428 for the Torch 9860. There was no change log so we don’t know what’s new, but make sure you let us know what you find in the comments below or the forums!Download Torch 9860 OS 7.1.0.428 from Telnor NorwayMake sure you join our community to share your thoughts on this!How to: load an OS on your BlackBerry

BlackBerry Music Gateway Now Available – Enter to WIN One! (June,2012)

Research In Motion has at last made the BlackBerry Music Gateway available to purchase for $49.99. The BlackBerry Music Gateway lets you wirelessly play the music on your BlackBerry smartphone, BlackBerry Playbook tablet, or computer through your home stereo or car stereo. Just plug the BlackBerry Music Gateway into your stereo system, and pair it with your BlackBerry device using Bluetooth connectivity or NFC technology, then fill any room with your music. It’s really that simple. You’ve got full control over playback, change tracks, volume, and play or pause because your BlackBerry device is your remote control.We’re giving one lucky N4BB reader the chance at winning one of these bad-boys. All you have to do to enter is follow the instructions below:You must be a registered member of N4BB. When you comment, your name will appear in green and it will link to your profile. If you’re not logged in and comment, your entry will not be valid. Make a comment to this post signalling your entry, and state how you’d use the BlackBerry Music Gateway.We will select a winner next Friday, June 8th. Good luck and keep it locked to N4BB for more great giveaways. If you aren’t feeling lucky, you can pickup a BlackBerry Music Gateway for only $49.99 at ShopBlackBerry.Check out our hands-on video of the BlackBerry Music Gateway here.

Facebook Will Buy BlackBerry Maker RIM to Develop Smartphone, says ex-Nokia Manager (June,2012)

According to mobile marketing expert Paul Amsellem, Facebook needs to enter the hardware business, and it will do so by taking over BlackBerry maker Research in Motion for developing its own smartphone.“Facebook is under pressure from investors and needs a long term project,” Amsellem said. “Facebook needs to do something different so that it can move away from having to deal with Apple and Google’s rules with regard to application development.”Amsellem is currently the COO of Mobile Network Group in France and was previously a general manager at Nokia, and believe that the social network is under pressure to satisfy users and investors, and believes that a smartphone is the solution.Amsellem even thinks the deal could be a win-win due to BBM and NFC. “RIM is already big with chat as it has BBM [BlackBerry Messenger] and this can work together with Facebook Chat,” Amsellem said. “A Facebook smartphone with mobile payments would definitely give NFC the kick it needs”.While buying RIM may seem like the work of pure fiction, Facebook will surely be considering its entry into the hardware game, as its current business model is unsustainable, with 82 percent of revenue coming from advertising, but almost half of its 901 million users logging in through the advert-free mobile apps each month. What would you think if Facebook purchased RIM? BlackBook anyone? Or, FaceBerry?via IBTimes

Arianna Huffington Addicted to BlackBerry, Carries 4 At All Times (June,2012)

Arianna Huffington can’t live without her BlackBerry, and apparently one just isn’t enough. In a interview with Huffington Post’s editor in chief, she admited to being addicted to BlackBerry and said “typing on the iPhone is painful”. We have to agree with her on that, there’s nothing like a BlackBerry’s QWERTY keyboard. She also said she carries not one or two, but four BlackBerry devices with her at all times. You might ask yourself, why would anyone carry 4 BlackBerrys? She has a fair point. Arianna said she travels and works a lot, so has one BlackBerry device from each carrier because sometimes one just works better than the other. That’s quite a way to stay connected!
 via Business Insider

BlackBerry Wins ‘Coolest Brand Overall’ Award in South Africa (June,2012)

Thought BlackBerry was dead all around? South Africans don’t believe so. For the second time in the Sunday Times Generation Next 2012 Brand Survey Awards has selected BlackBerry as the ’Coolest Brand Overall’. The company also topped the ‘Coolest Cellphone’ and ‘Coolest High-Tech Gadget’ categories for the second year running.“We are delighted that South Africa’s youth has chosen BlackBerry as their smartphone of choice and as South Africa’s coolest youth brand for the second time. These awards reflect how the BlackBerry smartphone has become an indispensable social tool and lifestyle device for active, connected young South Africans and we would like to thank our young BlackBerry customers for their continued loyalty,” said Lanie Visser, Marketing Director for South Africa at Research In Motion.The results of the eighth annual Generation Next Brand Survey Awards were announced at an event at Montecasino, Johannesburg last night (31 May).via iAfrica

RIM Wins Legal Suit Over BBM Trademark (June,2012)

A few months back a Canada based company by the name BBM Canada sued Research in Motion over the BBM trademark. BBM Canada has had the BBM trademark for over 60 years, making this an even harder case to win. Here’s what RIM said:“We are pleased that the Federal Court of Canada sided with RIM and confirmed that RIM’s use of BBM does not infringe the trademark rights of BBM Canada as they had alleged,” RIM spokeswoman Tenille Kennedy said.The result of this legal battle has come as great news to RIM and BlackBerry users, losing the BBM trademark would’ve had huge consequences that would’ve been hard to recover from.via Globe and Mail

BlackBerry PlayBook OS 2.1.0.560 Beta Now Available for Developers (June,2012)

As we previously heard, RIM has officially released the OS 2.1 beta for the BlackBerry PlayBook. The new PlayBook OS 2.1 beta brings quite a few changes. Here’s just a few of them mentioned by RIM:Each Android app will now run in its own window. This greatly improves the user experience and consistency among the other application runtimes.Access to the Camera hardware is now supported for Android apps, allowing many more application types to work on the BlackBerry® PlayBookâ„¢ tablet.In-App Payment is now supported through the BlackBerry Payment SDK, so Android applications can include virtual items for sale in their applicationsPortrait support for Email, Calendar and ContactsImproved folder support including IMAP folder supportImproved HTML5 support, currently places PlayBook OS 2.1 in 1st placeThe other 2.1 features will come full steam when the new OS is commercially released. The 2.1 Android SDK will be released in beta coinciding with the OS release, and the 2.1 Native SDK will be posted next week, with an update to the Adobe® AIR® SDK to come shortly after. Similar to PlayBook OS 2.0 beta, you will need to whitelist your PlayBook’s PIN in order to download OS 2.1 beta.Register your PlayBook to download OS 2.1 beta

Voice Chat App TalkBox Goes Beta on BlackBerry (May,2012)

Some have called TalkBox an instant voice messenger, some said they’re a global walkie talkie, while others say they’re a voicemail service. TalkBox like to think they are a springboard of voice messages. Your voice is carefully curated and delivered by TalkBox voice bubbles of maximum 1 minute in length. TalkBox makes asynchronous voice chats possible. Saying good morning to the world by sending a voice post using Agent Twitter or Agent Facebook; talking to an oversea business acquaintance without having to schedule an appointment; brainstorming a new product ideas with the team using group chat; when a goodnight kiss is sent to your traveling parents, a good morning sound cuddle will be received.TalkBox let us know that they’ve opened up a public beta for their BlackBerry app. Simply fill out the form with some information and you can then be on your way to testing the TalkBox app and sending voice messages to friends and family. TalkBox app is currently available for BlackBerry devices OS 5.0 and up.Download TalkBox beta for BlackBerry

RIM Announces First Innovation Zone in Asia Pacific (May,2012)

RIM has announced the setting up of a BlackBerry Innovation Zone in Kerala, which is the first one in the Asia Pacific region. Alec Saunders says RIM will also set up two innovation zones in India this year. Kerala’s innovation zone will showcase BlackBerry’s latest technologies and are going to host developer activities, such as BlackBerry Hackathons and Bar Camps. Once again, RIM seeks to motivate developers by making RIM’s mobile technology more accessible and training young minds with the help of BlackBerry experts. The innovation zone is equipped with full 4 G network, telecom labs, innovation zones, legal and intellectual property services, fully furnished offices and video conference rooms.via Zeenews

RIM tied-up Tata DoCoMo to Bring Free Calls to BlackBerry Users (May,2012)

BlackBerry 9320 users on Tata DoCoMo will get free calls as RIM has tied-up with the operator to provide post-paid subscribers with this device to get a 10 GB data plan and be able to make a number of free calls. Here’s what Tata DoCoMo says:“Tata DoCoMo monthly rental plan of Rs 599 offers 600 minutes of free local and national calling, free 600 local and national SMS and an unlimited BlackBerry Internet Services plan,”You can buy the BlackBerry 9320 from any store across India.via FirstPost

RIM Opens BlackBerry Apps Lab at the University of Pretoria (May,2012)

RIM has partnered with the University of Pretoria to open a BlackBerry Apps Lab in the Information Technology department. The Lab has a BlackBerry Enterprise server, Internet access and some high-tech computers. What RIM seeks to achieve with the BlackBerry Apps Lab is to provide students and faculty with access to all necessary resources and knowledge to start developing BlackBerry apps. This once again proves how commited RIM with developers and making sure they always have what they need to work and stay motivated with BlackBerry development.via ITWeb

Canadian Government Won’t Bailout Research In Motion (May,2012)

The Canadian Government was fast acting to save their auto industry. However, that same tax payer gratitude doesn’t appear to be extended to Research In Motion, should they ever need it. When asked, Canada’s Finance Minister Jim Flaherty is already saying ‘no’.“It has been a leading company for Canada in terms of research development and innovation, but it does need to reorganize itself, and that’s something that we expect the leaders in the company to do on their own,” Mr. Flaherty told reporters today, according to Bloomberg News.RIM is taking a beating with their stock dropping nearly 76% over the year, with a large 7% drop on the news of low quarterly results. RIM is also expected to cut some 2,000 jobs starting this week. This also comes at the news RIM has hired banks JP Morgan and RBC Capital Markets to weigh on ‘strategic options’, which can include a whole array of things, including a sale of the company.Despite all of the negative news, the key players at RIM are ecstatic for BlackBerry 10′s release. Their morale seems high, and RIM continues to work hard at attracting developers to the platform with the BlackBerry Jam World tour. If the Canadian Government won’t bailout its top tech company, lets hope RIM can do it themselves.via Globe&Mail

When is it Right for BlackBerry 10 to Release (May,2012)

RIM is in the news again. With a warning of an operating loss this quarter from CEO Thorsten Heins, the stock has plunged about 7% leaving the stock sitting at around 10$ per share.  With disappointing news, the already immense pressure to release a BlackBerry 10 smartphone sooner rather than later has increased.  But why?RIM has clearly stated that the first BlackBerry 10 device will be available by the end of this year. Obviously releasing the new BlackBerry 10 smartphone before the back-to-school season would have its benefits, or perhaps before Black Friday, or Christmas (the list goes on).  You’d get that extra boost in sales depending on the time.  However, I don’t believe a moderate increase in short-term sales has a significant effect on the long-term success of BlackBerry 10 and RIM itselfIf RIM launches early in the fall, such as August, they may benefit from the back-to-school sales period.  However, if the product is marketed poorly, or the operating system is unfinished, the situation would probably become pretty dire for RIM regardless of the early launch.  Without changing the perception of the BlackBerry brand, or launching a solid product, the launch date is a moot point.If RIM launches BlackBerry 10 later this year, such as in November, it will be more likely that the product will be finished.  Although, the sales opportunity from the back-to-school period will be lost, they can still benefit from the Black Friday/Cyber Monday and Christmas sales, which are associated with higher volumes.Even considering the potential release of the next iPhone, at this moment the perception of BlackBerry has been so tarnished in North America that I doubt the launch timing relative to the iPhone would even matter.  The general consensus among consumers is that the iPhone and Android platforms are superior.  In order to compete, RIM has to convince consumers that this new breed of BlackBerry smartphones is not only good, but better than the competition.  On top of that, RIM has to deliver a solid smartphone experience that competes with established and mature platforms with much more apps.Despite the gloomy news, it’s tough to go out of business with 2.1 billion dollars in the bank.  It’s not as if RIM has to release this device soon so they can avoid getting shut down.  BlackBerry 10 will be released regardless.  I feel the main reason why many claim that an earlier launch is better is their desire to satisfy their own doubts about the future of RIM.  In times like these, differentiating public pressure to perform from the ability to perform is difficult.  As long as RIM keeps its word and launches BlackBerry 10 this year, I believe the real question is the ability of RIM’s marketing and software development to achieve success despite such strong opposition.

RIM Starts ‘Don’t Just Think. Do.’ BlackBerry Marketing in Australia (May,2012)

Following on the ‘Wake Up’ marketing campaign in Australia, Research In Motion is continuing the Bold marketing. Some new banner ads have started to pop-up, which read ‘Don’t Just Think. Do.’It’s a pretty cut and dry banner, but it does show a small BlackBerry logo and a website address of WakeUpBeBold.com. Upon visiting the website you’re greeted with an Australian man telling you how to be the best businessman or woman. Check it out for yourself and see if it pumps you up to Be Bold.Thanks Georg!

BlackBerry Curve 9320 Coming to Virgin Mobile Canada for $300 (May,2012)

The BlackBerry Curve 9320 has just made its way to the FCC for a sooner rather than later release in the U.S. Canada looks to be getting this BBM connected BlackBerry soon as well. According to the leaked internal slide, Virgin Mobile Canada will release the Curve 9320 soon.There isn’t a clear release date, but pricing looks to start at $299.99. The Curve 9320 will feature OS 7.1, 2.44-inch display with a resolution of 320×240, 3.2MP camera with flash, WiFi, GPS, FM radio, Bluetooth, 1450mAh battery weighs in at 103 grams.Thanks Doug!via MobileSyrup

BlackBerry Curve 9310, 9320 Pass Through FCC (May,2012)

The U.S. looks to be getting the low-end Curves we saw debut in emerging markets around the world. Both the BlackBerry Curve 9310 and Curve 9320 have hit the FCC, sporting IDs L6AREY20CW and L6ARFD30CW.So far the 9320 has made its way to Australia, India, Vietnam and the UK. These devices have a single-core processor, 512MB RAM, 3.2-megapixel camera and hardware QWERTY with a dedicated BBM button. If you’re eager for more on these devices, check out the FCC filing here.via Engadget

RIM Thought About Going Private; Here’s Why That Might Be Good (May,2012)

Before Thorsten Heins took the reigns from Mike Lazaridis and Jim Balsillie, the two RIM co-CEOs apparently discussed with private equity firm Silver Lake Partners last year about going private. However, talks of the matter ended when they couldn’t agree on RIM’s valuation.According to Bloomberg, there were only “preliminary discussions” but due to the “disagreement over valuation” the talks didn’t go anywhere. If RIM could reach an agreeable valuation, going private could be a good thing.Investors in private companies may or may not hold a liquid investment. Covenants can specify exit dates, making it challenging to sell the investment, or private investors may easily find a buyer for their portion of the equity stake in the company. Being private frees up management’s time and effort to concentrate on running and growing a business, as there are no SOX regulations to comply with. Thus, the senior leadership team can focus more on improving the business’s competitive positioning in the marketplace. This is essential, as RIM has garnered a bad rap for lack of focus and time-management.A take-private transaction could be an attractive and viable alternative. As long as debt levels are reasonable and RIM continues to maintain or grow its free cash flow, operating and running a private company frees up management’s time and energy from compliance requirements and short-term earnings management and may provide long-term benefits to the company and its shareholders.Do you think RIM should go private? Or, do you think they should sell-out and dwindle away from the ‘big 3′ spot? Vote on their sale in our poll here, and comment below on your thoughts about RIM going private.

Poll: Should RIM Sell Itself Before Releasing BlackBerry 10? (May,2012)

Research In Motion has got themselves in a bind. BlackBerry 7 smartphone and PlayBook sales were terrible. As a result, RIM is sitting on a bunch of inventory, an estimated $1 Billion worth.With their shares dropping to nearly single digits, RIM has been weighing the options available to them. One likelihood is the sale of all or parts of the company. Their hardware division is tanking and really only have QNX left to stand on. Should RIM look to sell itself and recoup some of the losses or bite the bullet and hope BlackBerry 10 is a win? Vote in the poll and comment with your thoughts.Take Our Poll

App Task Manager Free for BlackBerry Smartphones released (May,2012)

S4BB Limited has released a free version of the App Task Manager application for BlackBerry Smartphones. This app allows its users to view a list of all running applications on your BlackBerry, including those in the background.  You can also view detailed information for each app such as size, version, vendor and more. App Task Manager is available for all BlackBerry smartphones running OS6.0 or higher. There’s a free version with an ad banner at the bottom and a paid, ad-free version for only $0.99.Download App Task Manager from App World>>

i-Mentalist’s FUZZengine Brings Wallpapers and More to your PlayBook (May,2012)

FUZZengine is personalizing tool by i-Mentalist with which you can download wallpapers, video backgrounds and sounds to your BlackBerry PlayBook tablet. i-Mentalist has said that they are already working on a BlackBerry smartphones version of this app. FUZZengine is available for free and can be used by end users and developers, but you need to register first. When you register you’ll get free skyparrot cloud service and all of your unused wallpapers and videos will be stored for you. Developers can use FUZZengine to add cool new features to their apps and get better exposure. You can also become a contributor and share videos, sounds and images and even sell them through the app! For more info on this head over to their website www.fuzzengine.net.Download FUZZengine from App World>>

BlackBerry Jam World Tour Has Officially Started (May,2012)

BlackBerryJam World Tour has kicked off and developers in Milan are working with RIM’s developer relations team, connecting with other developers, getting hands-on time with the BlackBerry 10 tools and more! Here’s some of the things attending developers will get to see:Be amongst the first to develop for the BlackBerry 10 platform.Discover the power of BlackBerry 10. Learn about the unique capabilities that will set applications apart.Collaborate with others in the developer community. Learn, share and network with fellow developers.Have access to BlackBerry 10 platform and tools experts.Developers will also get to attend to sessions focused on HTML5 + BlackBerry® WebWorksâ„¢ and Native C/C++ and Cascades QML development for the BlackBerry platform, as well as one-on-one time with developers to help them build their apps. For more info check out blackberryjamworldtour.com

What to Make of RIM Having $1 Billion of Unsold BlackBerrys & Hiring Bankers for ‘Strategic Options’ (May,2012)

Research In Motion issued a press release regarding the news that the company was sitting on $1 Billion worth of unsold BlackBerry smartphones and PlayBooks. RIM’s CEO, Thorsten Heins, said, “The on-going competitive environment is impacting our business in the form of lower volumes and highly competitive pricing dynamics in the marketplace, and we expect our Q1 results to reflect this, and likely result in an operating loss for the quarter.”Additionally, RIM announced that they’ve hired J.P. Morgan Securities LLC and RBC Capital Markets to “assist the Company and our Board of Directors in reviewing RIM’s business and financial performance. These advisors have been tasked to help us with the strategic review we referenced on our year-end financial results conference call and to evaluate the relative merits and feasibility of various financial strategies, including opportunities to leverage the BlackBerry platform through partnerships, licensing opportunities and strategic business model alternatives.”The key part to what Heins mentions in RIM’s engagement with J.P. Morgan and RBC Capital Markets, is “partnerships, licensing opportunities and strategic business model alternatives.” For quite awhile now we’ve heard rumors of Samsung looking to license the BlackBerry 10 operating system. Sammy is getting sick of Android’s fragmentation and even more, fretting over Google’s intimate relationship with Motorola. Thus, it could be a win-win for RIM to license BB10 to Samsung. At this point, with RIM’s shares trading in the single digits, any largely revenue generating opportunity could be an option.RIM is losing money in the hardware sector. While our poll shows BlackBerry users want RIM to keep making their own hardware, it might soon become a thing of the past. Jefferies analyst, Peter Misek, has calculated in a note to clients that after assigning operating costs and including inventory charges, the hardware division likely spent 4% more than it took in. Could this mean we might see RIM one day be solely a software company?It is still a bit early to tell, but the signs are beginning to show. Nonetheless, as we’ve pointed out, RIM has made some substantial acquisitions. Perhaps it is only a matter of time until RIM can play all of their cards. RIM will be reporting results for the first quarter of fiscal 2013 on June 28, 2012 after the close of the market. The Company will discuss today’s announcement and first quarter fiscal 2013 results on aconference call and live webcast beginning at 5 pm ET, June 28, 2012. The call can be accessed by dialing 1-800-814-4859 or at www.rim.com/investors/events/index.shtml.

Research In Motion CEO Provides Business Update (May,2012)

Press ReleaseWATERLOO, ONTARIO–(Marketwire – May 29, 2012) - Research In Motion Limited (RIM) (NASDAQ:RIMM)(TSX:RIM), a world leader in the mobile communications market, today provided a business update from Thorsten Heins, the Company’s President and CEO.“During the Q4 2012 and fiscal year-end financial results conference call on March 29, I said that I would provide our shareholders with candid and timely updates when possible on the progress and challenges RIM is experiencing. While we are no longer giving quantitative financial guidance, I wanted to provide a brief business update at this time, and will provide more details when our Q1 financial results for the quarter ended June 2, 2012 are released on June 28.In terms of challenges, as I mentioned on the March financial results conference call, RIM is going through a significant transformation as we move towards the BlackBerry 10 launch, and our financial performance will continue to be challenging for the next few quarters. The on-going competitive environment is impacting our business in the form of lower volumes and highly competitive pricing dynamics in the marketplace, and we expect our Q1 results to reflect this, and likely result in an operating loss for the quarter. We are continuing to be aggressive as we compete for our customers’ business – both enterprise and consumer – around the world, and our teams are working hard to provide cost-competitive, feature-rich solutions to our global customer base. On the positive side, we expect to further increase our cash position in Q1 from the approximately $2.1 billion we had at the end of fiscal 2012.Despite the current challenges, we have made significant progress on a number of fronts in the past few months:Our annual BlackBerry World conference and BlackBerry 10 Jam took place earlier this month and both were tremendously successful. More than 5,000 developers, partners, carriers and enterprise customers from 115 different countries saw the first glimpses of our next-generation BlackBerry 10 platform and their response was encouraging.Our developer partners have been enthusiastic with the BlackBerry 10 Dev Alpha prototype unit we distributed at BlackBerry World and many are well underway in developing applications to be ready for the launch of BlackBerry 10 in the latter part of calendar 2012.The support and enthusiasm from our developer community is also reflected in our app growth, where we now feature more than 80,000 apps, which represents a 220% increase from one year ago, and more than 15,000 apps for PlayBook compared to less than 2,000 last year. We believe this bodes well for our ecosystem as we get set to launch BlackBerry 10.We are making steady progress with the innovation of our next-generation BlackBerry 10 mobile computing platform, which is still on track to launch in the latter part of calendar 2012.Our global subscriber base continued to grow this quarter to approximately 78 million, driven primarily by growth in international markets, which is partially offset by high churn in the United States, and our BBM user base has grown to approximately 59 million users globally.Our strong brand internationally was recently enhanced with the successful launch of two new BlackBerry 7 phones in India and Latin America.We continue to make strategic changes to RIM’s senior management team with the hiring of two key new members to RIM’s executive leadership team. Kristian Tear, our Chief Operating Officer, whose background also includes extensive experience in international sales in Europe, Asia and Latin America, and Frank Boulben, our Chief Marketing Officer, who will provide our team with deep experience in the mobile computing and communications industry. Both will assist me and the existing executive team as we continue to make the organizational changes necessary to position RIM for the future and prepare for the launch of our new BlackBerry 10 platform.The CORE (cost optimization and resource efficiency) program we told you about previously is focused on delivering key operational savings through various initiatives. The financial objectives for the CORE program are targeted to drive $1 billion in savings by the end of fiscal 2013, based on our Q4 run rate. We are targeting better efficiency and use of resources in our sales and marketing initiatives to effectively leverage marketing windows and evaluate our country portfolio to determine where it makes sense for us to prioritize our efforts. We will also continue to review RIM’s organizational structure and clearly define accountabilities for all key businesses and business processes with a goal of eliminating fragmentation, duplication and inefficiencies. While there will be significant spending reductions and headcount reductions in some areas throughout the remainder of the fiscal year, we will continue to spend and hire in key areas such as those associated with the launch of BlackBerry 10, and those tied to the growth of our application developer community. We will share more details regarding our progress throughout the year as programs are implemented or changes are completed.To further enhance our commitment to successfully completing our transformation, after the release of our year-end financial results, we engaged J.P. Morgan Securities LLC and RBC Capital Markets to assist the Company and our Board of Directors in reviewing RIM’s business and financial performance. These advisors have been tasked to help us with the strategic review we referenced on our year-end financial results conference call and to evaluate the relative merits and feasibility of various financial strategies, including opportunities to leverage the BlackBerry platform through partnerships, licensing opportunities and strategic business model alternatives.Although we are facing challenges, we remain excited about BlackBerry 10 and believe that this platform coupled with the results of the strategic review will create long-term value for our stakeholders. We will provide another more detailed business update when we report our first quarter results in June.”Q1 Results Conference Call DetailsRIM will be reporting results for the first quarter of fiscal 2013 on June 28, 2012 after the close of the market. The Company will discuss today’s announcement and first quarter fiscal 2013 results on a conference call and live webcast beginning at 5 pm ET, June 28, 2012. The call can be accessed by dialing 1-800-814-4859 or at www.rim.com/investors/events/index.shtml. A replay of the conference call will also be available at approximately 7 pm by dialing 1-416-640-1917 and entering passcode 4501363#. A replay of the webcast will be available clicking the link above. The replay will be available until midnight ET July 12, 2012. The conference call will also appear on the RIM website live at 5 pm ET and will be archived at http://www.rim.com/investors/events/index.shtml.About Research In MotionResearch In Motion (RIM), a global leader in wireless innovation, revolutionized the mobile industry with the introduction of the BlackBerry® solution in 1999. Today, BlackBerry products and services are used by millions of customers around the world to stay connected to the people and content that matter most throughout their day. Founded in 1984 and based in Waterloo, Ontario, RIM operates offices in North America, Europe, Asia Pacific and Latin America. 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.This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and Canadian securities laws, including statements regarding: RIM’s intention to provide shareholders with updates, when possible, relating to RIM’s progress and challenges; RIM’s transformation as it moves towards the BlackBerry 10 launch; RIM’s expectation that the business will continue to be challenging for the next few quarters; the effects of the intense competition in the wireless communications industry, and RIM’s plans and strategies to address competition; RIM’s current expectations regarding its financial performance in Q1 of fiscal 2013, and its anticipated cash position at the end of the quarter; RIM’s expectations and beliefs relating to the support of its developer partners and the development of its ecosystem in advance of the launch of BlackBerry 10; the anticipated timing of the launch of RIM’s BlackBerry 10 platform; the anticipated benefits of recent strategic changes to RIM’s senior management team and the hiring of outside advisors; RIM’s plans and expectations relating to the CORE program; and RIM’s expectation that it will be able to create long-term value for its stakeholders. The terms and phrases “would”, “will”, “transformation”, “move towards”, “continue”, “ongoing”, “expect”, “likely”, “well underway”, “to be ready”, “believe”, “progress”, “still on track”, “position RIM for the future”, “prepare for the launch”, “targeted”, “goal”, “accelerating”, and similar terms and phrases are intended to identify these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on estimates and assumptions made by RIM in light of its experience and its perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors that RIM believes are appropriate in the circumstances, including but not limited to general economic conditions, product pricing levels and competitive intensity, supply constraints, the timing and success of new product introductions, RIM’s expectations regarding its business, strategy, opportunities and prospects, and RIM’s confidence in the cash flow generation of its business.
Many factors could cause RIM’s actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, including, without limitation: RIM’s ability to enhance current products and develop new products and services in a timely manner or at competitive prices, including risks related to further delays in new product introductions, such as the Company’s BlackBerry 10 smartphones; risks related to intense competition, including RIM’s ability to compete in the tablet market, strategic alliances or transactions within the wireless communications industry, and risks relating to RIM’s ability to maintain or grow its services revenues; RIM’s reliance on carrier partners and distributors; risks relating to network disruptions and other business interruptions, including costs, potential liabilities, lost revenue and reputational damage associated with service interruptions; RIM’s ability to manage inventory and asset risk; RIM’s ability to implement and realize the anticipated benefits of its Cost Optimization Program and CORE program; RIM’s ability to maintain or increase its cash balance; security risks and risks related to the collection, storage, transmission, use and disclosure of confidential and personal information; RIM’s ability to attract and retain key personnel; RIM’s ability to adapt to recent management changes and fill vacant key management positions; RIM’s reliance on suppliers of functional components for its products and risks relating to its supply chain; RIM’s ability to maintain and enhance the BlackBerry brand; risks related to RIM’s international operations; risks related to government regulations, including regulations relating to encryption technology; RIM’s reliance on third-party network infrastructure developers, software platform vendors and service platform vendors; RIM’s ability to expand and manage its BlackBerry App World applications catalogue; RIM’s reliance on third-party manufacturers; potential defects and vulnerabilities in RIM’s products; risks relating to litigation, including litigation claims arising from the Company’s past practice of providing forward-looking guidance; RIM’s ability to manage its past growth and its ongoing development of service and support operations; potential additional charges relating to the impairment of goodwill or other intangible assets recorded on RIM’s balance sheet; disruptions to RIM’s business as a result of shareholder activism; risks related to intellectual property; and difficulties in forecasting RIM’s financial results given the rapid technological changes, evolving industry standards, intense competition and short product life cycles that characterize the wireless communications industry.These risk factors and others relating to RIM are discussed in greater detail in the “Risk Factors” section of RIM’s Annual Information Form, which is included in its Annual Report on Form 40-F and the “Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” section of RIM’s MD&A (copies of which filings may be obtained at www.sedar.com or www.sec.gov). These factors should be considered carefully, and readers should not place undue reliance on RIM’s forward-looking statements. RIM has no intention and undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

BlackBerry, The Rebirth Part 3: Acquisitions In Motion (May,2012)

Looking at RIM, one can’t help but point out the number of companies that its has acquired over the last two years. Companies such as QNX , The Astonishing Tribe (TAT), NewBay, Jaycut, Scoreloop, Tungle, tinyHippos, Gist, DataViz, Cellmania, Paratek Microwave inc., just to name a few. Did the Waterloo war room realize that BBOS was so outdated that a massive overhaul was needed? Perhaps they realized that QNX alone wouldn’t be sufficient alone in building their war chest? Let’s look at why some of these acquisitions puts RIM in a solid position:The QNX platform allows RIM to provide real-time multitasking. That is something we don’t see with the competition. Developing for the QNX platform is quite easy and it erases nearly all the BlackBerry OS limitations. QNX technology is the foundation for the worlds highest capacity router, which handles data, voice and video traffic for millions of Internet users every day. QNX is very well integrated with the automobile industry, which RIM is beginning to have a huge presence. They have partnered with companies like Cisco, Delphi, General Electric, Siemens and Thales. QNX is considered a very stable system and that’s why most 911 emergency units are powered with QNX software. This is the company that is powering RIM’s BlackBerry10 software. Let that sink in.RIM didn’t stop there. You now have an extremely powerful operating system, but you need to dress it up, right? Thats where the innovative UI geniuses from Sweden come into play. We are talking about The Astonishing Tribe, of course. What’s cool about these guys is the fact they now call themselves “The BlackBerry Tribe”. The TAT group has been around for 10 years and we’ve already seen some of their work on the PlayBook with the Scrapbook app. Thorsten Heins showed off the new UI at BlackBerry World 2012, which you can see demoed here.BlackBerry Messenger (BBM) is what BlackBerry is currently all about. We know it’s the main reason BlackBerry has managed to stay relevant to consumers.  How do you perfect that? By adding Scoreloop to BBM!  With BlackBerry10 you will be able to play against your BBM contacts. A lot more will be shown off at the newly renamed “BlackBerry Jam Americas” as we get closer to release.Those are some notable mentions on just a few of the new companies RIM has acquired and the potential services they will bring to the Platform. What do you think? Does BlackBerry have the foundation it needs to succeed in the future?  Do you believe the “acquisition” strategy RIM has chosen is a valid one? Sound off in the comments and stay tuned for our last part of the series where we concentrate on the future of RIM and some of the grim possibilities.

BlackBerry PlayBook OS 2.1 Beta Releasing This Week (May,2012)

We’ve been hearing for quite sometime that BlackBerry PlayBook OS 2.1 would be releasing soon. Turns out, PlayBook Product Manager, Michael Clewly, tweeted that we can expect to see the 2.1 beta by the end of May. That means we can expect it to drop this week!Here’s what will be in BlackBerry PlayBook OS 2.1…Business Users:Portrait Email, Contacts & Calendar.App World carrier shell.Bridge texting & wi-fi transport support.Developers:Android multi-tasking.Camera API & In App PaymentsIT Administrators:Over-the-air actuvation over Mobile Fusion.Personal Encryption.The BlackBerry PlayBook OS 2.1 beta will be rolled out in similar fashion as OS 2. You will need to register your PlayBook’s PIN and then will be able to see the new OS update available when checking for new updates from the PlayBook.via BerryReview, BerryReporter

Apple Board Member Uses a BlackBerry (Video) (May,2012)

Apple Board member and J. Crew CEO, Mickey Drexler, has been filmed in a new CNBC documentary. What has caught some users to their surprise is Drexler’s use of a BlackBerry Bold 9900 instead of an Apple iPhone. You can see the Bold 9900 at around 21 seconds in the video.Drexler has been a member of Apple’s board since 1999, though appears to prefer his Blackberry device. Goes to show not everyone prefers the iPhone, even those directly associated with Apple’s business. Though, it is unclear if Drexler was also wearing J. Crew during the video (should he have been?). via WebProNews

RIM’s Chief Legal Officer is Retiring from the Company (May,2012)

Another loss for RIM as we see one of their senior executives leave the company. Research in Motion’s Chief Legal Office, Karima Bawa, is retiring from the company after 12 years. RIM says Bawa had been discussing her retirement for quite some time, so this shouldn’t be a surprise to anyone inside the company. Ms Bawa has also said that she is planning to stay in the company to help with the transition of findind a replacement.via Washington Post

GuestLogix Leading Buy Onboard POS Application Now Available for BlackBerry (May,2012)

GuestLogix, a leading global provider of onboard retail and payment technology solutions to airlines and the passenger travel industry, today announced the availability of its popular onboard retailing technology for BlackBerry.“GuestLogix is proud to propel innovation to meet the growing needs of the airline industry with state-of-the-art retail technology,” said Tom Douramakos, President and CEO of GuestLogix. “We have seen a shift with some airlines provisioning consumer mobile devices to crew members to perform a variety of operational tasks onboard from supplying frequent flyer profiles to submitting customer complaints. Now, these airlines are able to extend the use of these devices to become secure POS terminals with all the key functionality that GuestLogix is known for.”The new solution, which can include hardware peripherals to securely capture credit and debit card payments, enables airlines to convert consumer mobile devices into secure point-of-sale (POS) terminals. For more information check out the press release below:Press ReleaseTORONTO, ONTARIO, May 29, 2012 (MARKETWIRE via COMTEX) — As airlines introduce popular consumer mobile devices for use by cabin crew onboard in order to increase operational efficiencies, GuestLogix Inc. CA:GXI -3.23% , the leading global provider of onboard retail and payment technology solutions to airlines and the passenger travel industry, today announced the availability of its popular onboard retailing technology for smartphones and tablets running on iOS, Android and BlackBerry operating systems. The new solution, which can include hardware peripherals to securely capture credit and debit card payments, enables airlines to convert consumer mobile devices into secure point-of-sale (POS) terminals.“GuestLogix is proud to propel innovation to meet the growing needs of the airline industry with state-of-the-art retail technology,” said Tom Douramakos, President and CEO of GuestLogix. “We have seen a shift with some airlines provisioning consumer mobile devices to crew members to perform a variety of operational tasks onboard from supplying frequent flyer profiles to submitting customer complaints. Now, these airlines are able to extend the use of these devices to become secure POS terminals with all the key functionality that GuestLogix is known for.”The new development offers a Service Oriented Architecture (SOA) which enables individual solution components such as product browsing, check-out or payment functions to be used independently. The solution is now available in a variety of languages including Chinese, Japanese and Korean. Airlines will be able to use internally developed graphical user interfaces (GUIs) to communicate with each of the GuestLogix’ services or they can opt to use a GUI developed by GuestLogix.“While there is still a strong dependence on GuestLogix’ handheld POS devices for in-flight sales, we have always been, at our core, a full solutions company,” added Brett Proud, EVP, New Markets and Products, GuestLogix. “Providing airlines with the flexibility to use our leading onboard retail software and payment processing capabilities on any device of their choosing was a natural extension for GuestLogix and is already being widely embraced in each region that we operate.”For sales inquiries about GuestLogix’ solution for iOS, Android and BlackBerry tablets and smartphones, please visit www.guestlogix.com . For high resolution images of this new solution, please visit www.guestlogix.com/mediakit.html .About GuestLogixGuestLogix Inc. CA:GXI -3.23% , the leading global provider of onboard store technology and merchandising solutions, helps airlines and other travel operators create, manage, and control onboard retail environments tailored to their needs and their passengers. GuestLogix brings a decade of expertise as a trusted onboard transaction processing partner to airlines around the world. The Company’s global headquarters and centre for product innovation is located in Toronto, Canada with regional head offices located in Dallas, Texas (serving Americas) London, UK (serving EMEA), and Hong Kong (serving Asia Pacific). A sales and support office is located in Singapore. Logistics centres are situated in Toronto, Dallas, London and Seoul with a software development centre located in India. More information is available at www.guestlogix.com .

Wikitude 7 Now Available for BlackBerry (May,2012)

Launched today, Wikitude 7 for BlackBerry features a completely revamped user interface, offering a fun and intuitive way to interact with the Augmented World.Specifically designed to take full advantage of BlackBerry’s unique screen layout, featured worlds and Wikitude content partners are immediately accessible, providing users with a one click, content rich Augmented Reality view of their surroundings. Users will now find 3 unique screens, each accessible by sliding either right or left.Download Wikitude 7 for BlackBerry from App World here.Press ReleaseWikitude, the world’s first and leading Augmented Reality browser has today launched Wikitude 7 for BlackBerry which features a completely revamped user interface, offering a fun and intuitive way to interact with the Augmented World around them.Specifically designed to take full advantage of BlackBerry’s unique screen layout, featured worlds and Wikitude content partners are immediately accessible, providing users with a one click, content rich Augmented Reality view of their surroundings.Users of Wikitude 7 for BlackBerry will now find three unique screens, each accessible by sliding either right or left. The Featured screen highlights some of the most popular worlds amongst Wikitude users, and aids in finding new and interesting experiences. This area is being changed frequently by Wikitude’s editors making sure you are always see the latest and most exciting content Worlds.The Categories screen helps users find everything from the nearest historical landmarks around them to the closest place to grab a cup of coffee, choose from more than 3,500 Worlds, there is something for everyone. Another swipe and a user generated list of Favorites screen makes favorite places and worlds instantly accessible. Customize Wikitude according to your content preferences and lifestyle. BlackBerry’s unique BBM service within Wikitude arrives pre-installed on the favorites page, and makes finding and connecting with other BBM users a snap, beside chatting to your existing buddies in AR, you may even make new friends.Wikitude is launching this 7.0 version together with content partners such as TripAdvisor, Hotels.com, Yelp and more. “We are delighted to partner with Wikitude to help empower their users to make the very best travel decisions when preparing for their trip, through insight and feedback from the experiences of over 50 million travellers. With TripAdvisor on the Wikitude mobile application, users are only a couple of clicks away from discovering a top rated hotel, restaurant or attraction.” comments Rory Kenny, Director Mobile Partnerships EMEA, TripAdvisor.“The great thing with the integration of Hotels.com in Wikitude is that customers can look at last minute deals for hotels nearby using their phone camera. They can look at hotels available around them, find the right prices, look at photos of the hotel, as well as customer reviews. That provides to the customer a great, and content rich experience,” adds Yannick Barriol, Mobile Marketing, Hotels.com.Wikitude 7 is now available for all supported BlackBerry devices. Download it, and discover your world today!

Desktop Bridge for BlackBerry PlayBook Now Available (May,2012)

*UPDATE* – RIM has pulled the app, says they were not aware of the security hole and will patch it. Sad.A few days ago we told you about this great app that was coming soon to PlayBook. Desktop Bridge would allow its users to use Bridge on your desktop PC over SSL, thus letting you use BBM and a lot more on your computer via a browser! The app was waiting for App World approval and has finally made it. Like we told you before, the app is available for only $4.99, which seems like a fair price for what you’re getting. Check out the video below for a preview of Desktop Bridge.Buy Desktop Bridge from App World for $4.99>> On a BlackBerry? Click here for mobile video view

Official: BlackBerry Torch 9810 OS 7.1.0.391 from Rogers Wireless Inc. (May,2012)

A new official OS for the BlackBerry Torch 9810 has been released from Rogers Wireless. OS 7.1.0.391 is now available for download, no word on what’s new, but make sure you let us know what you find if you choose to try this one out.Download BlackBerry Torch 9810 OS 7.1.0.391 from RogersMake sure you join our community to share your thoughts on this!How to: load an OS on your BlackBerry

Spice Labs Crossed 50 Million Download Mark (May,2012)

Spice Labs let us know that they are in celebration mood since they cross the 50 million downloads mark last month! They have over 20 apps, most of which you probably know and have on your BlackBerry device. They are known for apps like Magic Canvas, Hangman, Memory, Battles Unlimited, Crossword Daily and much more. If you haven’t tried out any of their apps yet, then make sure you head over to their website spicelabs.in and download a couple of them!

Labyrinth Multiplayer Game for BlackBerry PlayBook (May,2012)

A couple of BCIT students made a pretty cool Labyrinth game for the PlayBook. Best thing about this game is that it can be played by multiple users online. The players must pass the ball to the next player without falling off the sides or in the holes. The winner will be the player with the shortest amount of time to pass the ball and complete all four levels. We’re not sure if the game is already available or if it’s waiting for approval, but keep it locked to N4BB and we’ll let you know! In the meantime, check out the video below for a preview of the game.

Bar Chart Express Graphing Tool Released for BlackBerry PlayBook (May,2012)

Bar Chart Express has been released for the BlackBerry PlayBook. This is a simple, easy to use graphing tool with which you can graph up to 12 different sets of data in a single graph. It also allows the user to modify colors, titles, labels and legends, and even change font type. The app is currently available on the BlackBerry App World for $1.99.Buy Bar Chart Express from App World >>