Gadgets11.08.2012

Blackberry 10: what to expect

By Jeremy Proome

As RIM prepares its upcoming BlackBerry 10 operating system (OS) and hardware refresh, the company is highlighting the new OS’s data prioritisation, the new interface, and the upcoming flagship device itself.

Release date

RIM originally planned to launch the BlackBerry 10 OS before the end of 2012, but the company has confirmed that it will be delayed until early 2013.

RIM’s CEO Thorsten Heins ensured that the delay is not related to the architecture, but rather getting the code ready for consumers.

Interface

BlackBerry 10’s interface will resemble something along the lines of Android and iOS’s designs, which will integrate widgets, home screens and app lists.

The touch-oriented operating system will use the new Cascades UI Framework to enhance graphics for the BB10 interface.

BlackBerry 10 Dev Alpha

The hardware

RIM isn’t only introducing its new OS next year, but also their new handset.

Also named the BlackBerry 10, the upcoming smartphone is breaking further away from the traditional BlackBerry layout.

The full touch phone features a digital keyboard, which will have a similar layout to that of the Bold range’s physical keyboard.

A new prediction system suggests words and allows users to swipe the words into the text section.

The camera will feature a new rewind feature, capturing many frames when taking a photo and allowing users to “rewind” to the right moment.

Apps

Current BlackBerry apps won’t run on BB10, requiring users to download a new set of apps when they roll out.

The BlackBerry 10 platform will also support applications built using Adobe AIR and the BlackBerry Runtime for Android Apps.

Current BlackBerry 7 devices

All BlackBerry 7 handsets will not receive the update to the new BB 10 operating system, as RIM has completely rebuilt the platform from the ground up, which means the current crop of phones will be unable to run it.