Mark Fox's Weblog

During this week’s BlackBerry Developer Conference in San Francisco, Research in Motion unveiled a number of new APIs related to the new BlackBerry OS version 5.0 and developer tools including revamping the BlackBerry Java Plug-In for Eclipse which will also get a GUI Builder. APIs include three new location-based services include cell site geolocation, reverse geocoding and estimating travel time between locations, in app advertising and billing, expanding the Push Service API to third-party developers, and OpenGL ES support which will allow for 3D games.

The conference has a blog and videos.

Research in Motion has unveiled an important previously missing piece of its BlackBerry platform, a web based interface to the BlackBerry App World viewable from any browser. Previously the BlackBerry App World was limited on device browsing. One limitation is that purchases and installation of applications can only be done on device. People can select an application and have a link to it emailed to their device to simply this step but RIM should work on the ability to buy applications within a computer based browser and have them delivered to user’s devices over the air or on their next sync to a computer.

The web portal also serves as an important marketing tool. People know iPhones have lots of applications for them, but need to be able to check out the BlackBerry app selection.

The portal still needs a lot of work however. For example RIM needs to add filters by Supported Device, Countries and Carriers

US wireless carrier Verizon has announced it will start selling the BlackBerry Storm touchscreen device on November 21st for $199 with a two year contact after a $50 rebate.

No details on a Canadian launch yet.

While most of the United States is paying attention to the election at least a few people have noted the worst timed product launch in history; Silicon Valley Insider and InformationWeek are reporting that there were lines at a few stores for AT&T’s launch of the BlackBerry Bold.

PC Magazine gives it 4 out of 5 stars.