Out with the old
RIM has launched the latest version of its BlackBerry 7 operating system at its BlackBerry World conference, with improved performance and built-in support for Near Field Communication (NFC). RIM also introduced the latest additions to its Bold series of smartphones - the BlackBerry Bold 9900 and 9930.
Now, BlackBerry phones with the latest OS will enable users to access information just by tapping to an NFC smart tag. RIM has also introduced new voice-enabled search and BlackBerry Balance, which lets users separate corporate content from personal content.
In addition, the two phones will support up to 720p HD video recording and playback and feature a built-in compass (magnetometer) to support location-based services and augmented reality.
RIM confirmed that both the phones will be shipped worldwide this summer, and according to Cnet, it looks like T-Mobile has already committed to bringing the BlackBerry Bold 9900 to market later this year as its first 4G-capable BlackBerry.
According to Slashgear, RIM has also confirmed that existing handsets will not be getting an upgrade to BlackBerry 7 OS. It might come as a disappointment to current users, but RIM reportedly says the new OS is so dependent on the hardware graphics capabilities of its new handsets.
In addition, RIM announced new Facebook and video chat apps for the BlackBerry PlayBook.
