Research In Motion (RIM) has launched the BlackBerry PlayBook OS 2.0 for download, in line with its previously announced schedule. The latest version of its tablet OS features an integrated e-mail client with a unified inbox that consolidates all messages in one place, including messages from Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter, as well as personal and work e-mail accounts. The built-in calendar also harnesses information from social networks, and contact cards are populated with updated information from Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. The BlackBerry Bridge application provides a Bluetooth connection between the BlackBerry PlayBook and core applications on a BlackBerry smartphone (including BBM, e-mail, contacts, calendar and browser) in order to view the content on the larger tablet display. The updated BlackBerry Bridge application also allows a BlackBerry smartphone to be used as a wireless keyboard and mouse for the tablet. In addition, the new OS provides updated document editing functions, the Print To Go app, and increased control and manageability of corporate data with BlackBerry Balance. Enhanced web browsing capacities are also available, and new apps, including some designed for Android OS, have been added to the BlackBerry App World. In addition, RIM launched the previously announced BlackBerry Video Store in the US and the BlackBerry Mobile Fusion software, which supports device management for BlackBerry tablets and smartphones in an enterprise. The full release of BlackBerry Mobile Fusion (with mobile device management capabilities for iOS and Android devices as well) is planned for general availability in late March. The BlackBerry PlayBook OS 2.0 software update is available as a free download for all PlayBook owners.
