With BlackBerry 7.1 on the horizon, BlackBerry developers will need to get their apps in order to ensure compatability across all devices and for that, they have the BlackBerry Java SDk to work with. Previously sitting at v7, the BlackBerry Java SDK has now been bumped up to v7.1 with a beta status and adds a few API's that developers will be making use of. Most notably:
- NFC Peer-to-Peer API, allowing applications to share files and other data through NFC technology initiated communication with Bluetooth® handover.
- FM radio API, which is designed to give applications the ability to manipulate FM tuner settings on BlackBerry smartphones with supporting hardware.
- Profiles API, which brings more Super App features to applications, allowing them to query current profile settings and adjust their own application behaviour accordingly; or, conversely, intelligently change the current profile to match the user’s current activities.
Along with the Java SDK you can also download the BlackBerry Bold 9900 device simulator which runs on OS 7.1. That said; if you're wanting to get a look at OS 7.1 and aren't really a developer, the simulator is the best way for now. OS 7.1 is said to be reaching carriers by late November for testing with an expected roll out coming in December but who knows -- maybe we'll see some leaks before that... maybe.
