BlackBerry application development is poised for a boom as BlackBerry 7 makes its impressive entrance into the dynamic world of mobile operating systems. Research In Motion (RIM) released its latest version 7 of the BlackBerry Java SDK on September 20th. Known as BlackBerry 7, this version brings some attractive features to keep up with the increasing competition of Android app development and iPhone app development. Adding to the wow factor for BlackBerry application development, this new release is a breath of fresh air with its progressive contextual and graphically rich mobile application development capabilities.
The new BlackBerry 7 operating system is set to grow in popularity with features like augmented reality and Open GL ES 2.0 support and enriching BlackBerry application development. Furthermore, its combination with the BBM Social Platform is touted as a deadly combination for mobile app development.
BlackBerry 7 with its new and improved platform API opens the door for the creation of various applications that can take the mobile gaming experience to a whole new level. The new API is fully equipped to develop graphically richer and more attractive applications that make your application experience even more enriching. Built-in Near Field Communication (NFC) functionality gives you the freedom to create interactive mobile gaming apps along with mobile commerce solutions, payment apps, and more. The versatility that the new API brings is indicative of BlackBerry’s effort to break into non-business or non-business user territory as well.
Combining your application with the features of BlackBerry devices has been made much easier with device integration. APIs such as Magnetometer, Geofencing, and Maps make it easy to input complex geospatial shapes and enable easy detection of smartphone address and location. The multimedia experience has also been refined and enhanced with the introduction of APIs like Native Window, HD video recording, audio buffering, etc.
The path for advanced and improved graphics has been made in BlackBerry 7 through support for the Open GL ES 2.0 standard. The Open GL ES 2.0 graphics API ushers in the development of higher quality graphics, making the mobile gaming experience bigger and better.
With the Liquid Graphics interface feature, the BlackBerry 7 operating system also has a high level of visual appeal. The aesthetic value has been increased significantly compared to the predecessor BlackBerry 6 and users can prepare for a generous supply of good looks across the board. One look at BlackBerry 7’s highly polished new web browser and it becomes clear that RIM is serious about getting ahead of its rivals and market leaders: Android and iOS.
BlackBerry 7’s web browser is a step up in sophistication compared to its previous version (BlackBerry 6). Tabbed browsing and pinch-to-zoom create an engaging web experience. Other powerful punches in this new version are a new Java engine, support for Flash and HTML 5 along with improved gesture support. These are some of the trump cards that put BlackBerry 7 on par with the masters of the mobile operating system.
Another ace up the sleeve of this new version is BlackBerry Balance technology, which allows you to separate official and personal work on a single device, giving users an exemplary BlackBerry experience.
The new BlackBerry OS can rightly be said to be an indication of RIM’s shift to making its brainchild more consumer-friendly without denting its business affability.