BlackBerry launches new feature: FM radio

TORONTO – BlackBerry (TSX:BB) has launched a new feature that it can boast even the latest iPhones don’t have: FM radio.

A new version of the BlackBerry 10 operating system, which the Waterloo, Ont.-based company says includes hundreds of enhancements and new features, started being rolled out Tuesday in Canada.

Battery efficiency is said to be improved and a new interface shows which running apps are the biggest drains on power.

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Web pages can now be saved for offline reading without an Internet connection.

And users with a BlackBerry Z30, BlackBerry Q10 or BlackBerry Q5 will be able to tune into local FM radio stations without a data connection.

Those phones have built-in FM tuners, which are now activated by the new software update.

Samsung’s flagship Galaxy phones used to have FM radio tuners but the feature was discontinued with the latest Galaxy S4.

BlackBerry was up more than three per cent, or 35 cents, to $11.19 on the Toronto Stock Exchange.