December 17th, 2008
BlackBerry Application Suite allows Windows Mobile phones to run RIM's OS
RIM reportedly released some information today about its BlackBerry Application Suite, which allows a Windows Mobile device to run the BlackBerry operating system as an application.
Approximately 32 MB in size, the suite is based on OS 4.2.1 and can be programmed to boot up as soon as Windows Mobile boots up.
WHAT WILL WORK
BlackBerry e-mail, PIN messaging (BlackBerry Messenger works), BES synchronization, calendar, tasks, address book and memos all work like they do on a real BlackBerry. IT policies are supported and both Windows Mobile and BlackBerry “can [do so] simultaneously through their separate APNs,” according to BoyGeniusReport. Finally, both Windows Mobile and the suite can be tied to separate Exchange accounts.
WHAT WON’T
Features like GPS, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi cannot work because the suite doesn’t have access to them. Phone calls can’t be made through the suite, so all calls are routed through Windows Mobile. Video playback is not supported; some applications may not work properly on devices with VGA resolution.
True to its name, BerryReview has a laundry list of the suite’s functionality here.
Here’s a happy-hands-at-home YouTube video (aren’t they all?) detailing the suite:
Does the BlackBerry App Suite appeal, or is it too hobbled for regular use? Tell me what you think in TalkBack.
Andrew J. Nusca is an associate editor for ZDNet and SmartPlanet.
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