BlackBerry 10 dev device seen ahead of BlackBerry World
updated 09:55 pm EDT, Fri April 27, 2012
BlackBerry 10 test hardware is plain
The BlackBerry 10 developer device RIM plans to give away next week at BlackBerry World has been spotted days in advance. A CrackBerry forum poster got a quick, power-off look at the experimental smartphone, which is a relatively simple, brick-like design reminiscent of the BlackBerry PlayBook. Other than seeing both front and back cameras, little was discernible without turning it on.
RIM cautioned in advance that these were test devices to help developers write early apps and not reflective of what actual customers would get. The first all-touch device, nicknamed the London, is likely to be considerably thinner and more polished than the developer unit.
Software remains a mystery, but should have at least some similarities to PlayBook 2.0 in a design adapted to the smaller screen. BlackBerry Messenger isn't known for certain to be showing given RIM's longstanding troubles porting it over from the old BlackBerry platform.
The London in its completed form could be available in or near October. Later models are expected to have the BlackBerry's signature hardware keyboard.
