Blackberry User Resource and Tips

Blackberry Storm - Pre-Order Yours at Best Buy

2008-11-07T21:03:00.003-05:00

For a $50 deposit, you can be one of the first to receive a Blackberry Storm when it hits Best Buy shelves. While the Blackberry Storm release date or Blackberry Storm Price is not yet available, the $50 refundable deposit will be applied to the final purchase price.

While there is no firm release date yet, Best Buy confirmed that as soon as the device arrives, you will receive a call from a mobile technician to activate the device.

Blackberry Storm is becoming a very popular new release from RIM as it is being touted as the direct competitor to the Apple iPhone. The Blackberry Storm comes with a touch screen to give it a similar look to the competition.

You can read also
Blackberry Free Themes
Blackberry Bold Phones

Crackberry Addicts - This One's For You

2008-10-03T10:18:00.003-05:00

I found this on You Tube and had a great chuckle. While it is humerous, the sad part is, I am sure a number of us can see ourselves in the video. Our children are being neglected because of Blackberry Priorities. It's sad but true.

How do you use your Blackberry?

Blackberry Bold Hits the Middle East

2008-09-28T16:04:00.000-05:00

Etisalat, UAE's largest telecom provider & Research In Motion (RIM) announced the availability of the BlackBerry Bold smartphone in the Middle East starting October 7.

Customers will be able to choose from 3 different pricing plans for unlimited domestic UAE, unlimited Global or limited domestic UAE.

Blackberry Takes World By Storm

2008-09-24T08:33:00.002-05:00

Research In Motion is preparing to launch the long anticipated touch-screen version of its BlackBerry smartphone known as the Blackberry Storm 9530. It will feature global capabilities.

The exact launch date is still to be confirmed but it looks like it will be available in the UK, US and Canada. Stay tuned for the Blackberry Storm Review.

Many people have touted this device as the competitor to Apple's popular iPhone.

Google Mobile Maps on Blackberry Devices

2008-09-23T21:33:00.004-05:00

If you are interested in Google Maps for Blackberry devices, Google recently launched a new version of Googl emaps for mobile devices with similar graphics and images as the desktop version. It even comes with walking directions.

To download the new version for your Blackberry device visit:
m.google.com/maps or google.com/gmm

If you are trying to confirm if the place you are visiting has a parking lot close by or what the restaurant you are heading to for lunch look like? You can look at "Street View" after you enter the address. You can view the intersections, landmarks close by, the list goes on.

You can browse Street View overlaid on the map or in full screen, rotate your view to see more of your surroundings, and move along the street.

This a great addition to the Google Mobile Suite. Coupled with yur Blackberry and you have a great tool to navigate your way.

Rather than just driving directions, Google also give walking directions.

Blackberry's on a roll

2008-09-23T16:05:00.002-05:00

With the recent introduction of the Apple iPhone, Blackberry has had to catch up. Sort of, kind of, NOT!

Blackberry is in a league of it's own. It has been adopted by Corporations around the world. To break free of that stronghold will take a huge undertaking by Apple.

That said, RIM has announced a number of initiatives and new models over the last while. Here are just a few.

Blackberry Javelin
Blackberry Thunder
Blackberry Flip
Blackberry Bold

The most recent one that has been announced is the Blackberry Javelin. However, currently you will need to wait for the Blackberry Javelin release date.

Blackberry Announces Flip

2008-09-19T13:29:00.004-05:00

Blackberry is launching the New BlackBerry Pearl Flip 8220 Smartphone which is a version of their Pearl Smartphone. They are doing this to capture some retail consumer marketshare.

This device will be no different than the current Blackberry Pearl in features. It will sport a video and music player, a suretype keyboard, a web browser.

70% of the mobile users in the US use a flip phone and RIM is looking to gain some marketshare by adding that feature to their line up.

The flip version of the Blackberry Pearl device should be available in the fall of 2008.

Mobile Wikepedia

2008-09-17T16:04:00.002-05:00

If you are a Blackberry user and need access to information quickly you may want to open your mobile browser and check this out. It is the mobile version of Wikepaedia!

Visit www.wapedia.mobi and make sure you bookmark it.

Blackberry Thunder changes it's name to Blackberry 9500

2008-07-02T18:28:00.003-05:00

RIM / BlackBerry officially announced that the BlackBerry Thunder will now be known as the Blackberry 9500.

The Blackberry 9500 is going to take on the iPhone head to head. It's 360 x 480 resolution will give it a crisp display. Watch for it later this year.

For more details on Blackberry Handsfree devices click here.

Blackberry vs iPhone Marketshare

2008-06-02T20:47:00.002-05:00

The top 5 manufacturer Q1/08 marketshare numbers are in.

Apple iPhone marketshare dropped from 26.7% to 19.2%
Blackberry RIM marketshare rose from 35.1% to 44.5%
Palm marketshare rose from 7.9% to 13.4%
Samsung marketshare increased from 5.1% to 8.6%
Motorola marketshare dropped from 7.5% to 2.6%

This summer will continue to be a battle for marketshare as RIM and Apple launch their 3G product. RIM launches it's Blackberry Bold and Apple will launch it's 3G-capable iPhone.

Make cheap calls with a Blackberry

2008-05-31T20:59:00.004-05:00

I came across an article recently outlining the background for Research in Motion. It talks about the Blackberry Pearl, the Enterprise Applications as well as some of the Blackberry handset benefits.

Take a read for more information on the Blackberry.

Blackberry with the "Touch" of an iPhone

2008-05-18T14:28:00.004-05:00

I came across this article indicating some insiders at RIM are looking towards a 3rd quarter launch of a touchscreen Blackberry. They say that it will be available with Vodaphone and Verizon.

This devise is being touted at the Blackberry 9500 Thunder. You can read more about the launch here.

If you look at the feature of the new touchscreen and add the features of the Blackberry Bold released earlier this week, you have great competition for the Apple iPhone.

Would you prefer a touchscreen, Qwerty or Suretype keyboard?

Leave a comment and let me know.

RIM preparing media synch for iTunes

2008-05-17T14:43:00.000-05:00

The battle for marketshare continues. The Apple iPhone is great at integrating the phone, and iTunes. Something that RIM's Blackberry suite has not quite mastered.

Blackberry's are very well suited as an email integrated cell phone.

Not any more...

This Engadget article talks about how Blackberry is looking at a media synch module to go head to head with Apple. You can read the article here.

XM Radio Mobile on Blackberry

2008-05-15T16:39:00.000-05:00

Owners of a Blackberry device (with version 4.2 or later of the OS) can get a version of XM's satellite radio service, regardless of carrier. You can read more here.

Microsoft and RIM Collaboration

2008-05-14T21:14:00.005-05:00

Microsoft and RIM will bring Windows Live Services to BlackBerry Smartphone Customers

Blackberry customer will be able to use Microsoft Live Messenger, Microsoft Live Hotmail in a more integrated fashion on their devices.

You can read more in this article from CNN Money here.

Are you addicted to your Blackberry?

2008-05-13T20:56:00.004-05:00

Is a Blackberry a distraction? Is Blackberry use addictive?

Many people talk about being a Crackberry addict. Others say that the Blackberry is changing the landscape good old manners. Some say Blackberry use is traded at the cost of spending quality time with families.

What do you think?

Is it a distraction? Are you driving at the same time as Blackberrying?

There is a great article in Scopical that you can read here about how workers are nursing their addiction.

Let me know your thoughts!

Matt

Blackberry Bold Debut - Rim Blackberry 9000

2008-05-12T20:29:00.002-05:00

Rim launched the Blackberry Bold (aka Blackberry 9000) Sunday.

Some of the features include
- a half-VGA (480x320 pixel resolution)
- a 65,000-color display
- QWERTY Keyboard

Measurements
- 4.5 inches tall
- 2.6 inches wide
- 0.5 inches deep
- weighs 4.7 ounces

You can read more details on the launch at c-Net here.

Move over iPhone - Blackberry Bold is here.

Let me know your thoughts
Matt

Can Children Be Meanaged By a Blackberry

2008-05-11T22:03:00.004-05:00

Nothing can replace a stern eye from a parent or some time in the park "sans Blackberry". Take a read through the article from the London Telegraph here.

How accessible are you - really?

2008-05-03T18:42:00.003-05:00

Who is the real winner when the employee is handed a Blackberry? Is it the employee as they have been given a great tool to make the more productive? Or is the company that gave the employee the Blackberry to make them more productive?

The employee starts to get emails 7/24, they become addicted to the technology and have a tendancy to use it more and more and more over time.

Does the company start to have a "We Own You" mentality raising their expectations and expecting prompt email response?

When I speak to clients - it is amazing how many companies are creating the culture that Blackberry use is the 1st priority.

Here is a great article from the Globe and Mail outlining how the Blackberry has become a Hot Labor issue. You can read it here.

Let me know your thoughts.

Possible RIM takeover by Microsoft?

2007-08-30T19:04:00.000-05:00

What would a takeover of RIM look like by software giant Microsoft? It is not the first time speculation existed over a RIM takeover.

RIM stock hit a record high today while the uncomfirmed rumours continued to swirl.

I wonder what Nokia, Motorola or HP would say if such a takeover happened.

It will be interesting to see what transpires.

Leave a comment and let me know what your thoughts of a takeover would be.

Matt

New York City Deploys Blackberry GPS

2007-08-25T20:21:00.000-05:00

Today I came across an interesting article that is putting Blackberry GPS devices to unique use and fixing a city at the same time.

Here is an excerpt of the article."It's the latest quality of life initiative taken by the environmentally-friendly mayor. He's calling the program "Scout."

"Scouts are actually a fleet of three-wheel mini-truck-like vehicles whose mission is to drive every city street once a month and report to 311 conditions that negatively impact the quality of life in the city. "The scout operator will drive down a street with a BlackBerry connected to a GPS system. When the operator sees something like litter or graffiti or a pothole, they'll just push a button and enter in the information into the system."

You can read the entire article here.

As always let me know what you think.

Matt

Vodafone picks up Blackberry GPS equipped BlackBerry Curve 8310

2007-08-18T15:09:00.000-05:00

It looks like Blackberry GPS phone Blackberry 8310 is making an entry into Europe through Vodaphone. Take a read here.

Let me know your comments

Matt

Blackberry Pearl 2, Curve 8310, Blackberry 8820 - Leaked Slides

2007-08-13T21:28:00.000-05:00

A set of three slides were leaked out via the interent to reveal details on new Blackberry units.

All three are successors to the Blackberry Pearl

- The Blackberry Curve 8310
- The WiFi Blackberry 8820
- The New Pearl.

The new Pearl will be available in both EDGE and CDMA versions with a number of enhanements over the first version. The slide outlines an external accessiible microSD slot, a 3.5mm headset jack, 2MP camera, improved mic wind protection, and improved lanyard design. What's more the EDGE version will get 802.11b/g WiFi, whereas the CDMA handset gets GPS. Scheduled for this Fall.

The Blackberry Curve 8310 will have all the capabilities of the original 8300 Curve and then some. You still get a big display, a QWERTY keyboard, and a 2MP camera with photo flash, but you've also got BlackBerry Fast GPS Fix technology, mapping and navigation, and a hot new titanium color.

The BlackBerry 8820. Like the 8800 which preceded it, the 8820 will be remarkably thin, boast a full-size QWERTY keyboard and a "great" speakerphone, as well as an enhanced media player, but it'll also bandy around with built-in 802.11b/g WiFi support and integrated GPS.

iPhone v. BlackBerry: Side By Side, Two Week Comparison

2007-07-27T16:53:00.000-05:00

A number of people have been reviewing iPhone functionality and trying to compare it to a Blackberry platform. Here is a great article that analyzes both platforms to help you with your decision. Take a read here: iPhone v. BlackBerry: Side By Side, Two Week Comparison.

Matt

Comcel deploys Babelfish-like translation tool for BlackBerry

2007-07-26T10:37:00.000-05:00

If you plan on travelling with your Blackberry, here is a great tool that you can use from Rant Network. It is a very intuitive translation tool that can help you translate real time. Read more about it here and give it a try. Comcel deploys Babelfish-like translation tool for BlackBerry

Matt

BlackBerry users 'save 60 minutes' a day

2007-07-26T08:30:00.000-05:00

According to a IPSOS Reid study, they found that workers with Blackberry devices are more productive and are enabled to do 1 hour more of work everyday. Take a read and let me know your comments. BlackBerry users 'save 60 minutes' a day

Matt

Should a 10-Year Old Have a Cell Phone? - Page1 - MSN Tech & Gadgets - Back to School Guide

2007-07-24T07:58:00.000-05:00

MSN recently did an article on whether a 10 year old should have a Blackberry. Take a read and leave a comment on your thoughts.

Should a 10-Year Old Have a Cell Phone? - Page1 - MSN Tech & Gadgets - Back to School Guide

Matt

Jem Telecom Launches Navigation Application Bundle for BlackBerry Smartphone Users

2007-07-24T07:41:00.000-05:00

If you live in the UK you will want to read about this.

Jem Telecom, a leading UK mobile data distributor of BlackBerry® smartphones, announced the launch of its Navigation Solution Bundle aimed at UK business employees who spend a significant amount of time out of the office.

To read more about this, click here ClickPress Jem Telecom Launches Navigation Application Bundle for BlackBerry Smartphone Users.

Blackberry Launching Dual Mode Wi-Fi and Cell Network Device

2007-07-20T15:17:00.000-05:00

Research In Motion is launching the new Blackberry 8820 smart phone that can access both Wi-Fi and cellular networks.

It will be their first dual-mode phone, allowing users to link to a wireless connection while still receiving a phone call from a cellular network. The phone is being touted as their slimmest yet with a full keyboard.

You can read more about the device at: http://www.blackberry.com/news/press/2007/pr-17_07_2007-01.shtml

Given the recent launch of the Apple iPhone, it’s looks like Blackberry will be launching similar features on their devices.
Matt

Apple's iPhone vs. BlackBerry - Morning Call - CNBC.com

2007-06-18T21:33:00.000-05:00

Apple's iPhone vs. BlackBerry - Morning Call - CNBC.com

With 11 days to go before the launch of the highly marketed iPhone, you may want to wait before buying one. Take a read.

Matt

Wildcharge - Device Charging Unit Debuts July 9

2007-06-16T21:22:00.000-05:00

Wildcharge: Wireless Gadget Charging Makes World Debut July 9 - Gizmodo

I saw this product a while back and thought it would be a great way to charge multiple devices without all the tangled cords and power bars. By placing the device on the charging sheet, it uses induction to charge the device.

Look for it starting July 9th.

Matt

ACT! on BlackBerry

2007-06-09T11:19:00.000-05:00

Blackberry is working feverishly to integrate various contact management systems with their devices. ACT! is one of them. See the article below from Simon Sage
Happy reading

Matt

ACT! on BlackBerry BlackBerry Cool:
Posted Jun 08 at 7:24 am by Simon Sage

BeamBerry Now Available For Your BlackBerry - BBHub

2007-06-06T18:49:00.000-05:00

BeamBerry Now Available For Your BlackBerry - BBHub: "BeamBerry Now Available For Your BlackBerry
Posted Jan 31st 2007 10:03AM by Melissa Oxendale"

This is great software to view, save and print documents with your Blackberry!

Pearl users will have a to wait a bit long for this but stay tuned.

Matt

Blackberry - Noun, Adjective or a Verb?

2007-06-04T12:47:00.000-05:00

I’m sure we can all relate to this…you are having an important discussion or meeting when you notice someone diverted by an e-mail on their Blackberry device. As they begin thumbing their response, you realize you are no longer interacting with this individual.

What should this impolite act be called? A “Blackberry”? Not the device, but rather the treatment you just received…

I feel like I’ve just been Blackberried … or I just got a Blackberry treatment by someone…

It’s amazing how one piece of technology has had such an impact on people’s manners. The cell phone has come a close second…but think about it, the many years of civilized behaviour has been diminished with one device - The Blackberry.

The next time you look down at your belt harness during family dinner, think again…is it really important that you respond right then and there?

Matt

Plastic Sheet takes the brunt of Blackberry abuse

2007-06-03T19:22:00.000-05:00

BlackBerry Cool » Review - Proporta Advanced Screen Protector

With the amount of wear and tear your Blackberry takes on a daily basis, here is a great plastic sheet that will protect your PDA screen. See the review below.

Matt

BlackBerry Trade Up Program

2007-06-01T19:34:00.000-05:00

RIM is offering a trade up program for existing Blackberry customers and Palm customers. You can read more below.

Matt

BlackBerry Trade Up Program: "Take your existing wireless device and turn it into a brand new, slim and stylish BlackBerry® smartphone. The BlackBerry Trade Up Program gives you the fair market value of your existing wireless device to use towards the purchase of the BlackBerry smartphone of your choice."

Can Blackberry Devices Help Deaf students?

2007-05-31T15:09:00.000-05:00

A research project is underway at the Toronto District School Board. The pilot is intended to improve communication between deaf or hearing-impaired students and their families, teachers and schoolmates using text messaging technology.

The project is part of TOILS (Toward Optimizing Independent Life Skills).TOILS began in 2003 in response to the social isolation some deaf and hard-of-hearing students experience compared to students without hearing disabilities. Text messaging is thought to improve both reading and writing skills for deaf childrenwhile also giving them access to a communication system so they can keep in touch.

GE Capital Solutions donated 50 used Blackberries to the inititive TOILS (Toward Optimizing Independent Life Skills).

This is another way that technology can enable people to make the best of life.
Matt

BlackBerry Reveals Bank's Secrets

2007-05-30T09:15:00.000-05:00

BlackBerry Reveals Bank's Secrets: "BlackBerry Reveals Bank's Secrets"

This article should act as a reminder that you should monitor what is on your Blackberry before you sell it to someone or destroy it.

Interesting reading.
Matt

Air Canada adds USB Chargers at every seat

2006-12-26T21:28:00.000-05:00

Under what Air Canada is labeling Project XM (Extreme Makeover) they are installing three-prong plugs for laptops, and USB ports to recharge iPods and BlackBerry devices at all seats by the end of 2007.

You can read the eintire Globe and Mail article here.

Airport Security Will Accept Blackberry Confirmation

2006-12-10T21:36:00.000-05:00

Imagine the time you can save...

You are flying through the airport, you hit security and while placing your Blackberry on the belt, you can flash them your boarding details. Thats right, your Blackberry will speed you through security.

See the entire article here.

Placing Phone Call From An E-Mail

2006-12-01T20:48:00.000-05:00

Have you ever been in the middle of reading an e-mail when you realize it would be more efficient to call sender rather than e-mail a reply.

Here is a tip to place the call directly to the sender of the e-mail.
- While viewing the e-mail, click on the menu button
- Scroll to Call ########
- Click Enter and proceed to the call

This is a much quicker way to place a call than exiting out of the e-mail, proceeding to the phone icon, scrolling through the list (or dial by name).

I hope you can make use of this little tip the next time you place a call.

What are you Blackberry Plans Over The Holidays?

2006-11-30T17:36:00.000-05:00

Is there ever a bad time to use your Blackberry? During family dinner? While on vacation? While someone is speaking to you? During family outings? In a meeting? During a presentation?

I'm sure we have all caught ourselves having to sneak in a "Blackberry hit" once in a while on the weekend. It generally is taking us away from something else that we should be doing.

What are your Blackberry plans over the coming holidays? Silicon.com did a little survey. The results can be found here.

Let me know your thoughts about the survey.

USB Charger For Your Blackberry

2006-11-29T08:57:00.000-05:00

Here's a great gadget to keep a lookout for!

Ecosol Solar Technologies, an Ottawa based company, has been awarded a "Consumer Electronics Association (CES) Best Innovations 2007 Design and Engineering" award for the Powerstick Universal Portable Charger.

The Powerstick is a portable power source for your Blackberry (or any other electronic device). You simply recharge it from any USB device and pop it into your briefcase or pocket. Then you can charge up your device whenever and wherever you want. No more scouting for power outlets at the airport for that last minute charge prior to boarding your flight!

With this handy gadget, your suitcase or briefcase will no longer be filled with knotted, spaghetti wired power adapters.

I can't wait to get mine.

Elmer Fudd Adds A Blackberry To His Christmas List

2006-11-28T19:19:00.000-05:00

Did you ever wonder what Elmer Fudd's life would have been like with his very own Blackberry? Maybe he would have caught "dat waskally wabbit" after all.

A growing number of hunters are heading to the bush with more than just their shotguns in tow. They are going armed with Blackberries strapped to their belts.

Whether it's to communicate with other hunters or just pass the time during their hunt, you can read more by clicking here.

I wonder if they ask the deer to wait if an important message just appeared and they start their crackberry prayer :-)

A Blackberry Massage

2006-11-27T11:33:00.000-05:00

If you are looking for a Christmas gift for a special someone (aka Crackberry someone), here is an gift certificate idea for a "Blackberry massage". It is becoming more popular at spas in local communities (as well as hotels and resorts)

The massage generally focusses on "Blue Thumb" and easing tension on various arm and hand muscles (specifically the thumb and wrist area). They use Blackberry based balm to massage into your hands during the treatment.

For more details you can view an ABC news item from December 2006 here. You can also visit your local Hyatt hotel website for details or click here for the Hyatt Stillwater Spa in Toronto menu with more details.

Costs range anywhere from $30 to $80 for the 30 minute massage. Blackberry device not included. :-)

Enjoy!

What Seat Did You Get On Your Flight?

2006-11-26T08:44:00.000-05:00

Today's tip will get you access to better (if not the best) seats on your flight. Whether you are flying domestically or internationally, this URL is a great addition to you Blackberry bookmarks.

Seat Guru (http://mobile.seatguru.com) is a great database that evaluates seats on 30+ global airlines and rates them for you. The seats are color coded (red, yellow, green) based on location, amenities, exit row, leg room, under seat electric outlet, lighting, movie screen location, 1st and last person to be served a meal in Business class etc.

All you need to enter is your airline and type of aircraft then sit back and let your Blackberry evaluate your current seat and then show you where you want to sit.

Now, I need to find a software program that can identify where the loud snoring passenger is sitting on those overseas flights :-)

Let me know how you like this like URL

Dial By Number on Blackberry - Mystery Solved

2006-11-24T11:09:00.000-05:00

If you have ever called an automated attendant and been asked to enter/spell the person's last name or a word...ughhh, uhhh, fumble fumble...you can solve that with the attached link I located.

It's quick and easy solution. Just hold the ALT key + the letter you need to spell and let your Blackberry do the necessary touch tone "translation".

Give it a try and let me know what you think!

Texting and Driving? Think Again!

2006-11-23T13:54:00.000-05:00

CBS ran a story November 22nd that should make you ponder the dangers of using your Blackberry while driving. While the first time you do it, it seems like an innocent thing... but as that one last unattended detail requires a quick e-mail to someone, you are flirting with disaster!

A number of corporations are creating company policies that state that using a cellphone or Blackberry while driving a car is not permitted. This will minimize the risk to the corporation, but people still do it.

Take a look at the segment.
Matt

Blackberry Messenger

2006-11-23T13:36:00.000-05:00

In order to communicate with other Blackberry users, I set-up Blackberry Messenger (http://www.blackberry.com/messenger). This software allows you to communicate, chat and Instant Message another Blackberry user through their Personal Identification Number (PIN). You can have one-on-one communication and group discussion as well as multiple concurrent discussions.

The application works with the same operating system as Yahoo (blackberry.com/yahoodownload) and Google Talk (http://www.google.com/talk/) on the Blackberry. However, what makes this product better is that it is only available to your PIN community. Make sure you exchange PIN details with other BB users (fellow employees or staff members) so you can use this tool for more effective communication.

It gives you the option of setting-up contacts as a group (e.g. your direct reports) so you can have group chat's rather than conference calls. You can also see when someone is typing a response so you can wait before responding (rather than crashing dialog).

Pinstack did a great FAQ for PIN- Click Here for Details. It will give you more background on PINNING.
Matt

Blackberry Maps vs Google Mobile Maps

2006-11-22T16:26:00.000-05:00

I've played with Blackberry Maps and also used Google Maps.

While both have very good content, I have a preference to Google Maps for it's satellite views and current traffic views.

I have had to use satellite view to get where I'm going (when the cab driver didn't). I zoomed into my Blackberry and was able to count buildings and parking lots to get to my destination.

Traffic views has been a handy timesaver for when I am in New York. I can see where traffic is snarled due to construction and accidents. While I can't change the situation, it helps me cope with traffic on the way to the airport or suggest alternate routes to the cab driver.

Let me know if you have had similar experiences with maps on your Blackberry. Which do you prefer?

Day 5 - What Do I Like Most About the Blackberry Pearl

2006-11-22T15:47:00.000-05:00

It's been five days since making the purchase and I can't really narrow down what single feature I like the best. So here are my top 3.

1. Size
- The unit is very slim and lightweight but has a solid feel. It measure a mere 4" x 2" X 0.5"

2. Pearl Trackball
- An amazing way to navigate the applications. I've changed my trackball sensitivity to 50

3. Screen
- The crisp clarity and resolution of the screen. It is made even better by an auto adjusting light sensor for indoor/outdoor use

Let me know what your top three are.

Humorous Blackberry(Crackberry) User Article

2006-11-22T15:29:00.000-05:00

I recently read a post from The Onion (www.theonion.com) that I am sure a number of us can laugh at. Take a read for yourself and tell me if you can relate to any of the content. The article can be found at: http://www.theonion.com/content/node/55369 .

Take a read and enjoy!

Blackberry Live Large Promotion, Free Airfare

2006-11-22T11:36:00.000-05:00

As an added bonus for purchasing my Blackberry Pearl this past weekend, I just realized that I qualified for a free flight. Blackberry has created a promotion (just in time for the holiday purchases) called "Live Large, Fly High". If you purchase a Blackberry Device between October 16, 2006 and December 11, 2006 you qualify and are eligble to receive a buy one get one free airfare. There are terms and conditions, so you may want to check www.blackberrylivelarge.com for more details.

I reviewed the conditions and determined that I can take a much needed vacation (Blackberry optional) with my wife to a warm sunny place at 50% of the cost. Another reason to confirm that an upgrade to the Blackberry Pearl was warranted :-).

I am enjoying my new Blackberry Pearl with all the new features and options. I'll write more about that later today so check back or better yet, link to the feeds (chiklets on the side so you get automatic updates. Post comments, I welcome your feedback!

I Just Purchased My Blackberry Pearl

2006-11-20T20:28:00.000-05:00

I have been looking into upgrading to a newer Blackberry. After researching and vacillating, I settled on the Blackberry Pearl 8100 Smartphone (www.blackberry.com). The Suretype keyboard took a little getting used to (about 2 hours) but now I can't recall life on the traditional keyboard.

Prior to my purchase, I researched a number of blogs and bulletin boards and the biggest downfall from what I could see was the smaller keypad and the SureType keyboard. I overcame these concerns by comparing those two issues with the size of the device. It is very compact, the screen has great resolution and the device comes with tons of functionality to help make me more productive.

The "Pearl" trackball has made the flywheel a thing of the past. The unique trackball is a great, efficient and precise way to navigate on the device. It also doubles as an ergonomic (non carpal tunnel producing) replacement to the flywheel.

I welcome your comments to this post as I update the many features I have learned on the device. I also welcome your thoughts and your experiences.

Just Ask Matt

2006-11-18T11:54:00.000-05:00

As a frequent traveler that also is raising a young family I have had to learn juggle priorities and ensure that my work life balance stays in check. I do that through use of my Blackberry. I started with a Blackberry 7250 and now use a Blackberry Pearl.

In my circle of friends and colleagues I am referred to as an early adopter of technology. When they have a question they generally "Just Ask Matt". If I don't have the answer, I am able to find it for them.

I have a passion to share my knowledge and learnings with people so they too can be more efficient in their lives.

One area of focus for me is training Executives in Career Transition on Blackberry use. I conduct monthly 2 hour seminars for individuals enrolled in an Executive Transition Program in Toronto, Ontario with the goal to help them be more efficient in their job search.

I hope find this blog useful for your work life balance too.

Why A Blackberry Blog for Road Warriors

2006-11-17T07:56:00.000-05:00

As a Road Warrior for over 20 years, I can appreciate how hectic life was pre-Blackberry devices and compared to life today. I was an early adopter and learned a number of tips and tricks on my own through trial and error. I am always asked by peers how change their device settings to help them increase their productivity. Last summer I helped a relative at the cottage who was floundering with duplicate messages in her inbox. With a quick change in settings, she finally started enjoying the productivity savings these devices were meant to provide.

I can relate to flying through the skies on myriads of aluminum tubes, endless delays at airports, staying in countless hotel rooms and dealing with a domino effects of small travel plan changes. I used my Blackberry to check gates, get driving directions, check-in to hotels, check into flights, check weather, find alternate flights when the pilot advised us of bad weather in Chicago, the list goes on.

By creating this blog, I look forward to sharing my experiences to help fellow readers and fellow road warriors. I also welcome you to link to this site as I expect to make multiple posts a week and welcome your comments on topics, your experiences and your tips as well.

Until my next post, have a great weekend!

Queen keeps up with Gadget Generation

2001-07-30T13:53:00.000-05:00

It looks like the Queen will soon be sporting a new Blackberry on the recommendations of Prince Andrew. You can take a read here: High-tech monarch keeps up with gadget generation.

I wonder if the will be PIN messaging each other inside Buckingham Palace. :-)

Matt