BlackBerry maker Research in Motion is set to launch its PlayBook tablet in Canada on Tuesday at a number of retail chains like Sears, Future Shop and Staples. We talk to technology expert Steve Makris about the PlayBook.
1. The reviews have been less than kind – are they fair?
Yes they are. BlackBerry maker RIM (Research in Motion) sent out early versions of the PlayBook, with incomplete software, to several high-profile U.S. tech writers and they all did an admirable job reviewing what amounted to a pre-launch, half-baked product. I think RIM should have held back on media reviews until launch day, Tuesday April 19, when presumably key software will be available to testers and loyal BlackBerry customers.
2. Is PlayBook ahead of or behind iPad 2?
The PlayBook is not an iPad killer. But it does beat the iPad 2 in several respects. Even the early updated version I was sent, has Web browsing experience equal to or better than any other device or computer (it can play rich Flash content sites which the iPad can’t) and is easier to carry around and hold with a smaller but sharp 7-inch screen.
3. What are the best features of the Playbook?
The PlayBook is designed to co-exist with newer BlackBerry smart phones, sharing and saving on one cellular account for Internet and data access. When paired to an approved BlackBerry via a special secure Bluetooth BlackBerry Bridge connection, users can use the PlayBook screen for their BlackBerry email, notes, contacts, calendar and Messenger applications. They now have a larger window to view and organize their work files. When the two devices are disconnected all the new work stays on the original BlackBerry smart phone. The PlayBook has a cool presentation app from its included Word To Go suite which shows your notes onscreen while the slides play on an HDMI connected projector or HDTV. It is a well-built solid device, a slick fast interface and a bright sharp sensitive screen, two cameras for video calls, descent 1080P video… a huge potential for RIM. The ability to run Android applications later this year was a smart move on RIM’s part.
4. What are your criticisms of the device?
The PlayBook needs WiFi for Internet access when on its own. If RIM wanted to attract PlayBook sales beyond current core BlackBerry owners and compete with Apple’s iPad 2, Samsung’s Galaxy Tab and Motorola’s new Xoom, it should have launched an independent cellular data capable tablet. RIM claims one is in the works for later this year when the PlayBook gets its new operating system certified for cellular use. The PlayBook’s battery is short on running life between charges, unless you turn all radios off and turn down screen brightness. Unless you are Bridged to a BlackBerry devices, your emails are limited to web-based apps like Hotmail, Gmail and AOL.
5. Should consumers buy the PlayBook now, or should they wait?
The average consumer should look elsewhere or wait for PlayBook 2. “CrackBerry” addicts will like the current PlayBook as a partner device. Companies can replace laptops with much more affordable PlayBooks for their BlackBerry-wielding employees. Casual BlackBerry owners will want a larger fun factour which isn’t there yet. Every shop in town is selling the PlayBook but you have to pay the full price for it and shop around for deals. TELUS for example, has a PlayBook Pro program which gives new owners a 45 minute free personal tutoting in more than 100 TELUS shops in Canada.
Technologist Steve Makris has followed the digital world for the past two decades, before Internet and after. He shares his hands-on experience with consumer technology. His mission is to make sure the last technology train leaves no one behind. Steve appears live on Global TV Edmonton Monday Morning News Tech Untangled, writes nationally for Postmedia, blogs on www.techuntangled.ca, Tweets Stevoidtech and can be seen on YouTube. He can be reached at stevoid@live.ca.
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