BlackBerry PlayBook gets an OS update

Posted by Dax Krishna

Wednesday, June 8th, 2011

It may not be the fix-all solution that most of the BlackBerry tablet owners are waiting on, but this update definitely paves the way for the PlayBook to get there eventually. Weighing in at 312MB, the update brings the OS version up to v1.0.5.2304 and brings a few enhancements to the device. These include a tablet-optimized Facebook app, improved video chatting, support for more languages and WiFi hotspot detection, to name a few. Read on for a complete breakdown of the said features and then some:

Facebook for BlackBerry PlayBook — The first Facebook app optimized for tablets now comes preloaded and introduces new features including video uploading, message deletion, Facebook search enhancements and more.

In-App Payments Support — Enables developers to create apps for the BlackBerry PlayBook using the BlackBerry Payment Service, which will allow users to purchase enhancements within apps such as another level in a game or a new edition of a magazine.

Additional Language Support — Updates language support to include: French, Italian, German, Spanish, Dutch and UK English.

BlackBerry PlayBook Charging Enhancements — By simply touching the battery indicator on the BlackBerry PlayBook home screen users can easily adjust the screen brightness or choose to restart, turn off, or put the tablet into standby mode. Other charging improvements include the ability to charge the PlayBook while it is turned off, as well as an on-screen alert to notify users if they accidentally have plugged in an incorrect charger into their BlackBerry PlayBook.

Video Chat Connectivity — Adds support for the TURN (Traversal Using Relay NAT) protocol, which enhances Video Chat connections between users on home, public and enterprise Wi-Fi networks.

Wi-Fi Hotspot Detection — Automatic Wi-Fi hotspot detection in the BlackBerry Tablet OS v1.0.5 makes it easier to connect to a Wi-Fi hotspot (at a coffee shop or an airport, for example).