By We’ve long heard rumors that the BlackBerry Playbook would run Android Applications and Games – smart move for RIM considering relying on their current operating system would be like bringing a knife to a gun fight. They even confirmed the fact in a press release last month. I’m not sure why Blackberry 7 OS would disclude Android support but at BlackBerry World in Orlando the company demonstrated exactly how Android support would be found on the much awaited Playbook.
And so our BlackBerry PlayBook Forum was born.
Above is an image from our friends at MobileBurn showing off an Android music/piano playing app on the Playbook. If you’re wondering exactly how all these apps will be distributed, we’re hearing RIM will be curating their own collection for you to choose from. I’m not sure if sideloading APKs will be possible, but with the bright bunch of bot lovers out there, I’m sure the community will make it happen.
Next up, BlackBerry 8 OS, where your entire operating system is an Android emulator!
I really think this is a double sided strategy. They allow Android apps distributed through Blackberry App World (really no different than just another app marketplace) in hopes that it will boost sales by launching QNX with a larger selection of apps. Developing for the Playbook (and future QNX phones) becomes dead simple if you develop for Android. However, were that strategy to fail, migration to Android is easier because Android apps are already supported. They’re not only using Android as a crutch but a full on back up plan if things really get bad.
Honestly I’m confused as to why RIM hasn’t used android OS skinned with a business heavy UI. Think about it, the security of BB OS (and BB messanger) optimized for the entrepreneurs among us combined with the Android we all know and love.
And bad WILL things get!
Blow me RIM. Go out of business already!