At last, the BlackBerry PlayBook tablet has updated to version 2.1.0.1032 officially. It has been a while since we last received PlayBook OS 2.0, RIM has had the OS 2.1 in beta status for quite some time. For those that were registered via the beta or non-beta users we encourage you all to download this updated OS. Keep checking the site for a detailed/updated change log.
Changes in OS 2.1 include:
- Updated BlackBerry Bridge: Now you can view, respond and compose new SMS messages on their BlackBerry PlayBook Tablet when connected to a BlackBerry smartphone over Bluetooth®. You’ll also enjoy increased performance and speed of other BlackBerry Bridge functions as well. So you can do more, more efficiently. Txt away, my friends.
- Email and PIM Enhancements: You’ve asked for it and we’ve delivered portrait support for email, calendar and contacts, giving you the option to use your tablet in either orientation to message. This will definitely come in handy for those of you who enjoy thumb typing in portrait mode like I do.
- Improved Android Application Support: Includes Multi-Window Applications, Camera Support and In-App Payments. We all love a richer app experience, and with the improvements to the Android runtime, that’s just what you’ll get. Running the applications in separate windows allows you to multi-task between Android apps easier, and in-app payments will make it easier for you to enhance your app content.
How to Check for Updates:
You can also easily check for updates yourself from the setting of your BlackBerry PlayBook tablet.
- Tap “Settings”, aka the gear icon in the top right corner of the Home Screen
- Select “Software Updates” followed by “Check for Updates”
You will now see one of two things:“You currently have the latest software installed”
Or
“Update available”
Additionally, PlayBook OS 2.1 offers new features that simplify the deployment of the tablets in the enterprise with BlackBerry Mobile Fusion. These include over-the-air enrollment to the BlackBerry Mobile Fusion server, support for ActiveSync certificate-based authentication, and additional IT Policy controls.
For developers (and consumers), the In–App Payment system now extends to Android applications.
The update is now available as a free over-the-air download. Customers will automatically get a notification of the update on their PlayBook, or they can tap the gear icon (in top right corner) and check for the new version under “Software Updates”.
Let us know if you come across any issues and what you like most about OS 2.1! Enjoy.
About Michael H.
