BlackBerry PlayBook getting optimized Facebook, video chat apps
Some big BlackBerry announcements are being announced even before BlackBerry World in Orlando opens this week, so let's start with a few new useful features for RIM's latest creation, the BlackBerry PlayBook.
First up is the new video chat app, which would prove handy for video conferencing over a Wi-Fi connection for either work or personal matters with friends and family. There are a few customizable options here, such as a friends list with favorite contacts and photos of said contacts. Incoming calls pop-up like a push notification, and calls can be declined or prevented altogether with a "do not disturb" sign. Missed calls will be recorded for the user to check back on later. Additionally, users can toggle between the rear and front-facing cameras for whatever reason.
But the even more fun (and probably more necessary for some) app is the optimized Facebook app - much to the chagrin of iPad owners who are still waiting for Facebook to work on a special app just for them. Many of the staple and familiar features are all available: adding/viewing friends' profiles, the news feed and chatting. Furthermore, PlayBook owners can connect the 7-inch tablet to an HDTV so that videos and photos can be displayed in 1080p glory. That might not be all that worthwhile considering that the resolution in Facebook galleries is diminished from the original uploaded form, but it's still something.
The video chat app will be available first on May 3rd. PlayBook owners can obtain the program by either waiting for the over-the-air update or download it manually from the BlackBerry App World. An exact drop date for the Facebook app hasn't been announced yet, but it will be at some point in May.
However, the world waits for a native e-mail application and support for Hulu Plus. The latter can wait. The former cannot.
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