RIM Brings BlackBerry Protect to Life

Canadian mobile phone maker Research In Motion has just released a new solution for the users of a BlackBerry smarpthone, namely the BlackBerry Protect free data backup and protection utility. For the time being, the solution has been released in a private beta version, meant to protect personal data in case the handset is lost or stolen.

The new service is meant to enable users easily wipe data from the BlackBerry smartphone in case they lose it or it is stolen, while also offering them the possibility to lock the device remotely, or to add contact information to the home screen so that the phone can be retrieve much easier. Additionally, users would also have the possibility to set the handset's ringer to high so that it can be found much easier.

Not to mention that the service would also offer them the possibility to wirelessly backup or restore data to or from the device via a Wi-Fi network. Or they can just use the data to set up a new BlackBerry device. All in all, the new BlackBerry Protect service seems to be nothing else but the BlackBerry Shield solution that emerged into the wild a few weeks ago. A few more details on it are available in the video below, courtesy of informationweek.

The BlackBerry Protect service should arrive with a web interface that would offer users the possibility to enjoy all the features the BlackBerry on-device app comes with, including the ability to view the status of remote management requests. Moreover, the web interface would also enable users backup their device or change certain account settings.

All in all BlackBerry Protect seems to be shaping up as RIM's solution for the consumer segment that would offer similar features the company's BlackBerry Enterprise Server brings into the business world. More and more users are relying on their handsets for the management of their daily lives, and a service that would protect their phones is most welcomed, that's for sure. The solution is compatible with 8000 and 9000 series smartphones powered by BlackBerry OS 4.6.1 or higher.