BLACKBERRY APP WORLD

As is the case with ali smartphone platforms, applications are currently at the forefront of the BlackBerry OS.

Previously, BlackBerry applications were expensive and mostly reserved for business users, especially on the server side of things, including accounting and CRM apps.

With the introduction of BlackBerry App World, anyone can download a range of apps, from games to business, productivity to entertainment and the BlackBerry certainly does benefit from running applications to suit your lifestyle.
   


Of course, applications are still available from traditional routes, including direct from the developer and for third party sites, where you have a much wider selection of payment options.

Although the BlackBerry began life as a strictly business device, it's now become a lot more, thanks to third party applications. A year or so ago, you could only find apps that would make your working life easier, but now that's all changed thanks to the introduction of BlackBerry App World.

BlackBerry's App World application store has revolutionised the BlackBerry and moved it from a business-only device to something that can be used in all aspects of life.
 

With a whole selection of applications available, from business and productivity apps, to games, e-magazines and navigation programs, there's something for everyone.

The store itself is simple to use. When you launch the app, you'll see the feature apps along the top, and then underneath, categories, top apps, search and My World.

When you find an application you're interested in, simply click on it to find out information about that app, plus reviews, ratings screenshots. If you want to download it, click on the download icon.

All paid-for apps on BlackBerry World are paid for by PayPal, so if you don't already have an account, you're urged to set one up. As soon as you've paid securely for the app via PayPal, it will start to download. You can watch its progress in the MyWorid tab. Once it's downloaded, it will automatically install.

if your BlackBerry doesn't come preloaded with BlackBerry App World, just point your browser to www.blackberry.com/appworld to download it.

App World currently has around 3,500 applications at the time of writing and it's increasing rapidly, although there's still a way to go until RIM's app solution will be a direct competitor to Apple's App Store.