Tech Blog

[#1]

For RIM, seeing the end of 2011 can’t come soon enough, considering what a miserable year it’s been for the company. The launch of the PlayBook tablet was the first big move RIM made, and though it didn’t exactly wow consumers, it doesn’t mean it’s not a capable tablet.

Right now, and until December 1, Future Shop is offering the PlayBook for $300 off, making the 16GB version as low as $199.99.

It’s been about six months since the PlayBook first hit store shelves, and despite the promising demos that preceded the launch, the final product felt incomplete or even rushed. Fast forward to now, and it’s worth asking if those same sentiments apply.

The email and compatibility issues with BlackBerry phones are less obvious today then they were then. Gmail still isn’t great though, but webmail accounts usually work without a problem. Not to beat a dead horse, but RIM really should’ve included native apps for email, calendar and contacts, but at least there are some third-party apps that cover those bases.

The overall performance and consistency of the device is definitely much improved. And personally, I do like the QNX-based operating system a lot. You BlackBerry users will eventually have to get used to it if you plan on upgrading to the new handsets in 2012 that are expected to run on the integrated BBX OS. BBX is pretty much all based on QNX.

In February, RIM is expected to release an OS update that will allow the PlayBook to run Android apps too. If it works well enough, this could be a huge bonus for PlayBook users.

But just as the case was with HP’s TouchPad when it was sold for $99, this price drop shows that there is a demand out there for tablets when the cost is significantly lower, no matter the brand.

But if you want one, you’ll have to act pretty fast. There were lineups in the first two days (not Apple-style lineups, but still lineups nonetheless), so getting one sooner than later might be the best option in case supplies run out.

[#2]

No longer available online and out of stock at most stores.... is Future Shop offering rain checks when customers show up at the store?

I just got one and have been demoing the Playbook's ability to run flash sites, play stereo video and pocketability.  Many friends are very interested.

[#3]

Since it looks like Future Shop is close to selling out, it should be pointed out that this sale is being offered by RIM.

[#4]

My parents do not and have not ever owned a Blackberry.  However, they are interested in buying a tablet.  I have instructed them to purchase the playbook at the $199 price point.  This tablet is a steal at this price.  The specifications are impressive but the 7" inch screen can be a little small for some.  However, the small screen can allow for easier transport in a coat pocket. This price point is where the non ipad tablet manufactors need to position themselves within the market.  Consumers do not want to spend $700 on a tablet that will sit dormant the majority of the day and is simply used for browsing and recreational use.  This tablet is unlike any other.  For most tablets once the tablet has been released to consumers it has pretty much plateaued and will only improve slightly.  With this tablet Blackberry attempted to do its own thing with the AppWorld.  Consumers didn't bite and RIM listened and is ready to introduce a solution.  Allowing the Playbook and phones access to the Android Market.  This will improve the playbook dramatically.  The question remains though.  Why is RIM selling the Playbook at a loss?  Especially with the upcoming QNX operating system that they are hyping.

[#5]

• For starters, the $300 promotion was over last week.
• I have found the smaller 7" much handier to walk around with than the larger tablets
• I notice some Android phones appears to promote larger screens than the standard 2, 3 or 4 inch screens.  The Playbook's 7" offers a bigger screen when needed, without having me squint on a 5 inch screen.