14 DAY TRIAL // Right on schedule, BlackBerry has finally officially launched version 10.3.1 of its operating system, which will begin rolling out globally today for devices like Blackberry Passport, Z30, Z3, Z10, Q10 and Q5, as well as for the Porsche Design P’9983 and P’9982 handsets.
Blackberry users have been waiting for the update to arrive since last month, and once they download and install the new build, they will gain access to a host of important new enhancements which will be detailed in what follows.
BlackBerry Blend
This is a feature that will allow you to sync content from your smartphone to your computer and tablet, so you’ll be able to view notifications, access documents and other such actions even if you have put your phone away. BlackBerry Blend is compatible with a variety of operating systems including Mac, Windows, iOS and Android.
BlackBerry World and Amazon Appstore
The update offers access to BlackBerry World which is a portal housing important business and productivity apps.
As for the Amazon Appstore, it offers the means to download the most popular Android applications out there so you can enjoy them on your Berry.
BlackBerry Assistant
This is one of the features BlackBerry fans have been anticipating the most. The company’s first virtual assistant (a competitor to Siri and Cortana) can be used to command actions related to emails, contact, calendar and other native BlackBerry applications.
The assistant is intelligent enough to “understand” your unique behavior. For example, if you type in the commands, it will respond silently. If you speak, it will answer back.
BlackBerry Hub with Instant Actions
This is the place where all conversations (emails, texts, phone calls) are archieved and from where you can categorize them.
The Hub comes equipped with a new instant actions feature that lets one organize and access the inbox without actually opening individual messages.
New Camera Functions
The update brings about new camera features including HDR (when sharp contrast is detected), enhanced Time shift mode (when faces are in view).
Images captured with Time Shift can be stored and edited right on the phones. A Panorama mode has also been added and most common modes are pushed to the forefront.
New Saving Keyboard Shortcuts
Keyboard shortcuts have been made available once again for the handsets with a physical keyboard, including BlackBerry Q5, Passport and Porsche Design P’9983.
So after you update, you’ll be able to use any of the physical keyboards available and connect it to Speed Dial for a certain contact. Or use it to launch your favorite apps.
Enhanced Battery Life
The new update adds Power Saving Profile customization, so you can now hope to see your BlackBerry last up to 15% more.
New ways of interacting with Media
The new 10.3.1 version gives you access to a bunch of new features including the ability to "Favorite" songs, photos and images. A new slow-motion edit video feat has been added to Story Maker and you can also choose between 17 preset equalizers set up when you are playing music/video.