T-Mobile Bold 9900 update adds WiFi calling and mobile hotspot

With my new 64GB BlackBerry PlayBook in hand I keep thinking about going back to using a BlackBerry Bold 9900 smartphone. I read over on TmoNews that a major update is rolling out for the Bold 9900 and Torch 9810 that includes some significant new features, including WiFi Calling and WiFi hotspot tethering.

WiFi Calling is an enhancement for T-Mobile phones that allows you to make calls over a WiFi network (your minutes are still used up). This function is great for those who have a weak cell signal in their house and still want to use their cell phone for calls. The other new feature is Mobile HotSpot support and one that I use with my HTC Flyer, Zune HD, and other devices with my current T-Mobile smartphones.

In addition, this latest update adds the following:

• BBM Music (no longer a separate app download)
• Bing Search
• BlackBerry Device Analyzer
• Commercial Mobile Alert System (CMAS)

There are also some bug fixes, such as resolving audio issues and other freezes. If you own one of these devices on T-Mobile then you definitely want to get this update installed. I understand there are some significant improvements to BlackBerry Bridge on the PlayBook and have been thinking about another Bold 9900, but the price is still way too high for one.

Related ZDNet coverage

• Review: RIM scores a hat trick with latest BlackBerry Bold and Touch lineup
• BBM Music; hands on screenshots and video
• Becoming a BlackBerry fan when it's not cool to do so
• Sorry BlackBerry fans, I just can't stick around any longer