If you're rocking a BlackBerry Z10 and using a BlackBerry PlayBook over BlackBerry Bridge, you'll want to hit up BlackBerry World. The latest release of BlackBerry Bridge has now landed and is available for download. Sadly, it still doesn't bring it on par with the BlackBerry OS version but it does have some bug fixes for barcode pairing, which was a problem for some folks out there. You can update from within BlackBerry World or click the link below.

Download BlackBerry Bridge from BlackBerry World

UPDATE - Shortly after we published this article, BlackBerry published their own article addressing the matter. In short, there is more updates coming to BlackBerry Bridge for BlackBerry 10 soon. You can read the full details via their post on the BlackBerry Blog.

For BlackBerry owners who are also BlackBerry PlayBook owners, one great combining feature was the option to use BlackBerry Bridge. Since it was released, BlackBerry Bridge has grown to be a really useful application that allows BBM, email, SMS, browsing and even shared file browsing between BlackBerry smartphones and BlackBerry tablets. With the release of BlackBerry 10 and ultimately the BlackBerry Z10, I can't help but feel a little robbed by its current implementation as it's severely lacking and feels quite a bit dumbed down -- and just downright not as useful now.

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Update:  As it turns out this version is available for BlackBerry 10 devices as well

BlackBerry Bridge, the application that allows you to connect your BlackBerry smartphone to your BlackBerry PlayBook, has been updated to version 3.0 via BlackBerry World. Updates to BlackBerry Bridge have historically meant that a PlayBook OS update is coming. While we don’t have any confirmation that a PlayBook update is in the pipes, this update may have some new features in it anyway. If you aren’t seeing the update on your BlackBerry, try the trusty ALT then “R-S-T” trick, or wait about 24 hours for the servers to propagate.

Download/get more information on BlackBerry Bridge 

If you're having issues with the last build of BlackBerry Bridge such as duplicate text messages, you can now load up BlackBerry App World and grab a newer version. Most folks should see v2.1.0.34 available but if you're on an older device, it can vary starting at v2.1.0.32. Either way, the update is there and ready for download. Thanks, rroyy! 

Download BlackBerry Bridge

A couple of nights ago a BlackBerry Bridge update dropped for BlackBerry PlayBook users, bringing it to version 2.1.0.26. As well as that, the much awaited PlayBook OS 2.1 update arrived for PlayBook owners too. The BlackBerry Bridge update brings about a few new features, one of which is the ability to view and respond to text messages from your PlayBook.

Much like BBM over Bridge, you have to have it selected to be used over Bridge. However, by default it is already selected and you should find it already in the BlackBerry Bridge folder on your PlayBook. It can also be used in portrait mode.

So, if you are still a big user of text messaging like I am (mainly due to having to communicate with friends and family on othe platforms) then this is a nice addition to the BlackBerry Bridge family.

If you haven't already update to the latest BlackBerry Bridge get it now through BlackBerry App World. Check out the video above for a quick look at Text Messages over BlackBerry Bridge.

Download BlackBerry Bridge v2.1.0.26

If you're looking to get an early start on the BlackBerry PlayBook 2.1 update that has now been pretty much confirmed for tomorrow, you can now fire up BlackBerry App World and grab BlackBerry Bridge v2.1.0.26 that will be needed:

• View and respond to text messages on your BlackBerry PlayBook
• BlackBerry Bridge can now use Wi-Fi to transfer bridge data when the BlackBerry smartphone and PlayBook are connected to the same Wi-Fi access point.
• Improved stability with pairing and includes connectivity bug fixes
• Various improvements to the overall user experience 

The update is still filtering through BlackBerry App World at the moment, so if you're not seeing it yet -- sit tight. It'll be along shortly as well as the PlayBook 2.1 update.

Discuss in the CrackBerry Forums

BlackBerry PlayBook owners are quite anxious to get the OS 2.1 update, and rumors have been flying about when, exactly, we can expect to see it become available. Some documentation surfaced online (and then was quickly pulled) in the form of a PDF titled BlackBerry Bridge App 2.1 and BlackBerry PlayBook Tablet 2.1 Security Technical Overview. While much of the information contained in the document is pretty generic and corresponds to information we saw already back in July, and the document is in fact dated July 19th, 2012, I'm sure there are many of you out there that would enjoy picking through the PDF and looking for interesting tidbits.

You can join in the discussion regarding this document and further speculation about how it corresponds with the impending release of BlackBerry Bridge 2.1 and BlackBerry PlayBook OS 2.1 in the forums at the link below.

Download the BlackBerry Bridge App 2.1 and BlackBerry PlayBook Tablet 2.1 Security Technical Overview
Discuss in the forums

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*UPDATE* - As noted previously, RIM has a habit of switching dates at the last minute and this release seems to be once again placed on hold for the time being for whatever reason. Back to playing the waiting game. Sorry folks!

For BlackBerry PlayBook owners, it's been a bit of a wait for OS 2.1 to arrive. It has been rumored to be arriving for quite some time now but that day never came and it has left people wondering where the update is. Some rumors have been floated around suggesting it will arrive on September 20th and while that's certainly plausible, we've taken it upon ourselves to go ahead and look into it a bit further as well.

As it turns out, that date may only be off by a day with the release of OS 2.1.0.982 (WiFi only we're hearing) and an update that pushes BlackBerry Bridge into v2.1 coming as early as tomorrow. We won't go so far as to say confirmed indefinitely because RIM does have a habit of switching dates at the last minute but feel free to start smashing your button to check for updates starting tomorrow morning, if you simply cannot wait for the notification to arrive.

Upset about the wait? Discuss it in the CrackBerry Forums

A small update to BlackBerry Bridge is now available. The new version sits at 2.0.0.35 and really only looks to fix one issue some users were having (although there may be other tweaks behind the scenes as well). Ths fix is for users who were experiencing a BlackBerry Browser error when using Bridge.

The update is showing as available in App World however some users are reporting it doesn't look like it can be installed just yet. If you do get it up and running be sure to drop a comment letting us know.

More information/Download BlackBerry Bridge

BlackBerry Bridge has again been updated, this time to version 2.0.0.31. The only major note is a fix for devices running OS 7.1. This probably isn't a sign of a BlackBerry PlayBook OS update as it has been many times in the past, but who doesn't love an update? If you're running the current version you should receive a notification to update, or you can head to BlackBerry App World to grab it now.

More information/Download BlackBerry Bridge

You'll have to roll with me on this one, as I really don't have "documentation" to show it as fact but word around Waterloo is that RIM has been working hard on the next BlackBerry PlayBook OS update along with an update for BlackBerry Bridge. Right now, we're hearing the OS for the PlayBook is sitting at version 2.1.0.460 while BlackBerry Bridge is sitting at version 2.1.0.3. So what changes has RIM been working on? A few actually:

• BlackBerry Bridge 2.1 - Now offers you the ability to choose Text Messages as a category from the BlackBerry Bridge folder on your PlayBook.
• Bridge Over Wi-Fi - You can now seamlessly connect your BlackBerry Smartphone to your PlayBook over a Wi-Fi connection   

Needless to say, that's not all the changes that are forthcoming. There will be plenty more but those are some of the highlights we've been hearing most recently. As it stands, there is no date for this to be released or if the versions noted here are final, they could go higher before actual release but the information was worth sharing with you all. 

If you're a BlackBerry PlayBook and smartphone owner you'll be happy to hear that BlackBerry Bridge has just received an update to v2.0.0.30. The change log is short on this one listing only a fix for predictive text issues on PlayBook OS 2.0.1, but I know some of you out there have been anxiously waiting for this to be resolved. Now, as we all know, a Bridge update is usually followed close behind by a PlayBook OS update but whether or not that's the case this time around, I guess time will tell.

The update should be available for most of you in BlackBerry App World, but if not you can try refreshing with ALT+R,S,T or just sit tight and wait for it to be pushed to your device.

More information/download BlackBerry Bridge

BlackBerry Bridge just received an update bringing it to v2.0.0.26. No change log, as usual, but regardless, you will definitely want to log in to App World and check for the update if you are a BlackBerry PlayBook owner. As we have seen in the past, PlayBook OS updates usually follow shortly behind Bridge updates, so you'll want to be ready for if (when?) that drops. You can snag the update for BlackBerry Bridge at the link below. If it's not showing for you yet you can try refreshing App World or just check back later.

Download/update BlackBerry Bridge
Discuss in the CrackBerry Forums

[ youtube video link for mobile viewing ]

BlackBerry Bridge was updated to version 2.0 to coincide with the huge BlackBerry PlayBook OS 2.0 update. In the video above, we will cover how to set up and use the new BlackBerry Bridge app.

The biggest feature of the updated BlackBerry Bridge app was the Remote Control feature allowing you to control your PlayBook with your BlackBerry phone. BlackBerry Bridge also now gives you the choice to select what items you want to be displayed on your PlayBook. This option is a welcome addition since BlackBerry PlayBook OS 2.0 now has native email, contacts and calendars.  If you have those apps added through BlackBerry Bridge and navitely on your PlayBook, you may find that you get double notifications.

So, let's go through getting BlackBerry Bridge setup.

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[ youtube video link for mobile viewing ]

So you've upgraded your BlackBerry PlayBook to OS 2.0. You might be, however, encountering some unwanted BlackBerry Bridge apps. We'll show you how to keep what you love and get rid of what you don't. 

You are loving the new native Messages, Contacts and Calendar as well as the new BlackBerry Remote feature that lets you control your tablet from the couch. Now that you've been on the new tablet OS, you might be starting to find some of the included bridge features to be redundant. For example, why do I need to get two notifications on on the PlayBook via Bridge and the other via the native email app about the same email? Well, not to fear -- we've got a solution that may just help you out and manage those unwanted notifications.

In the latest version of the BlackBerry Bridge app that can be found in BlackBerry App World, RIM has included a few much welcomed additions. The second biggest improvement has been the ability to select exactly what applications are delivered to your PlayBook via Bridge. For me, I tend to only have BBM connected because I've found all the other apps like email and contacts to be redundant as they are stored natively on my PlayBook. So, if you're like me and hate having double notifications check out the video  to get a walk through of how to select which apps you want from your BlackBerry on your PlayBook.

As always, you can find more information and participate in the discussion by hitting up the PlayBook forums. 

Get more information/download the BlackBerry Bridge app

By now, I'm sure most CrackBerry readers have updated to PlayBook OS 2.0 and have already been through the ins and outs of it all but in case there is anyone out there who hasn't updated yet -- when you do, you will notice there will no longer be a "BlackBerry Bridge Browser" on your PlayBook. It's not something wrong with the OS, in fact -- it's done that way by design as noted below:

Overview:

After upgrading to BlackBerry® Bridge™ 2.0 on a BlackBerry® smartphone that is not associated with a BlackBerry® Enterprise Server, the Bridge Browser icon is no longer present on the BlackBerry PlayBook.

Cause:

This is by design as the native Browser provides the same functionality when bridged, therefore making the Bridge Browser redundant.

In other words, when you are connected to your PlayBook via BlackBerry Bridge the browser will use your BlackBerry connection for data usage, unless WiFi is enabled. If WiFi is enabled it will automatically use the WiFi connection associated to your PlayBook. Now, no one has to wonder which browser to use as there is only one to choose from and it will use the appropriate connection.

Source: RIM KB29992

To go along with the release of PlayBook OS 2.0 we're all going to need a new BlackBerry Bridge update and although we heard that update may have been delayed to coincide with the release of PlayBook OS 2.0 to help avoid folks from trying to use features not compatible with their PlayBook, it looks like some folks never got the memo. The original rumored release date of the 20th has stuck and BlackBerry Bridge v2.0.0.25 is now appearing in BlackBerry App World. Go ahead and fire up App World, if it's there -- grab it. If not, sit tight, it'll show up soon.

Discuss in the CrackBerry Forums

BlackBerry Bridge has been updated today to version 1.0.7.5 fixing issues where it would not allow users to add a new tablet. While this update may seem small, we know that previously a BlackBerry PlayBook OS update is linked with a BlackBerry Bridge update, so keep your eyes on your PlayBook for an update, and be sure to let us know!

More information / download of BlackBerry Bridge

BlackBerry Bridge has received another update, this time to version 1.0.7.4. In the usual RIM fashion there is no change log to go along, so if you do find anything new and exciting be sure to leave a comment and let us know. Hopefully this tweaks up some of the bugs users were having and possibly even works with the PlayBook 2.0 OS. Grab the update from BlackBerry App World at the link below.

More information/download of BlackBerry Bridge 
Discuss more in the forums

  Do you keep your PlayBook bridged all day? 

BlackBerry Bridge is one of the big selling points of the BlackBerry PlayBook. It allows you to pair up your BlackBerry smartphone so you can securely access your contacts, emails, BBM and calendar. This is especially handy since the PlayBook still doesn't have any native versions of these apps on its own. Many users keep their devices bridged all day long so they have the ability to access these apps on either their phone or tablet.

Personally I don't keep my PlayBook bridged much at all. At times when I'm relaxing on the couch I'll pair up my devices and use the PlayBook for everything, but most times I am either in front of my computer or just use my device for my PIM apps. What we want to know is if you keep your devices bridged all day long or if you only do it at certain times. Pick the option in the poll above that best fits you, then leave a comment below letting us know what works for you.

BlackBerry Bridge has again been updated and now sits at version 1.0.6.5. No word on what's new or changed this time around, so if you come across anything fancy then let us know. Previous releases have tweaked things up a bit and made the app a bit smoother all around, so hopefully this does more of the same. This could also be a good sign that a PlayBook software update is on the way as well, since the last few Bridge updates were closely followed by a new PlayBook OS (but don't hold us to that). BlackBerry Bridge can be updated via BlackBerry App World.

More information/download of BlackBerry Bridge

One thing that has always bothered me about the BlackBerry PlayBook and more so BlackBerry Bridge is the fact that when using BlackBerry Bridge, none of your apps actually make use of the data connection. You can't download apps from App World, you can't send a tweet off using Blaq and you can't use the browser -- unless tethered. Today though, with the new BlackBerry PlayBook OS update to v1.0.7.2942, something has changed. Third party apps such as Blaq, Poynt, Facebook even our very own CrackBerry PlayBook app -- all now work while bridged to your BlackBerry. Some apps are slower then others but, they do indeed work. One app that doesn't work however, is BlackBerry App World, but could this be a sign of it coming later? Could be, but it could also be a mistake within the OS as well.

Whatever the case may be, we certainly hope it stays and RIM actually improves upon this method of connectivity. Realistically, this makes more sense then "tethering" your BlackBerry using your carriers APN's and having them charge extra for it. Have you tried some apps? Cut off your WiFi, try Bridge and let us know which are or are not working. Sadly, it still appears AT&T is blocking the function but if you found a workaround, feel free to share that as well.

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Reports are rolling in that BlackBerry Bridge has updated to v1.0.5.6 and is available for download via BlackBerry App World. If you're not seeing it yet, you can try refreshing your app list by pressing Alt+R,S,T and if that doesn't work, you may just have to wait a bit for it to get to you. Let us know if you notice any changes in the comments below, and thanks to everyone that sent this in!

Also, there was rumor earlier today that the BlackBerry PlayBook may see an update in the next few days, and that's looking even more promising since BlackBerry Bridge typically gets an update right before the PlayBook.

Download BlackBerry Bridge
Discuss in the forums

While we all wait for RIM to roll out the the latest BlackBerry PlayBook update that seemingly was delayed, you can now go ahead and download the latest BlackBerry Bridge update. v1.0.4.9 is making its way to users through the BlackBerry App World client or -- you can login to the BlackBerry App World webstore online to expedite the process. Changes? Discuss them in the CrackBerry forums.

Download BlackBerry Bridge 1.0.4.9 From BlackBerry App World

 

Remember when the PlayBook was released, and everyone was all giddy to go and download BlackBerry Bridge was soon as it was live, only to realize that AT&T customers were not supported? Well, after what feels like an eternity it appears as though today AT&T customers will have the ability to download the application officially through BlackBerry App World. Users will be able to access information that is coming to their BlackBerry device, such as emails and calendars, free of charge, but if you want to use the web you will be forced to sign up for the $20 tethering package. Keep in mind, you can still download the "unofficial" version from right here but AT&T could still try to charge you in order to get tethering to work.

Source: AllThingsD

Update - It's official, folks. A tethering plan will be required for web browsing, and full information on the release can be found here. 

Although we're still waiting for a BlackBerry Playbook update to roll out, we now have something that will presumably go along with that update. BlackBerry Bridge v1.0.0.93 is now available for download and is said to basically just contain some fixes to address the overall speed when using BlackBerry Bridge with the BlackBerry PlayBook. As of right now, it's still filtering through BlackBerry App World so you might not be seeing it. If not, you can refresh App World or just hit up the link below and grab the OTA. This file is for BlackBerry 6 users only, a version for OS 5 will be up shortly. Thanks, @rr_yy & @theiexplorers

BlackBerry Bridge v1.0.0.93 for OS 6
BlackBerry Bridge v1.0.0.93 for OS 5
Discuss in the CrackBerry Forums

Update: It looks like RIM may have pulled this knowledge base article - we'll try to see what's up but for now it looks like the OTA soultion may still be the best bet.

If you're a BlackBerry PlayBook owner that hasn't yet installed BlackBerry Bridge for whatever reason, RIM has made the files available for installation via Desktop Manager. This means that AT&T users who still haven't jumped on the OTA download of the Bridge app can grab the software straight from the source and install to their device from a PC. AT&T still has no sign of making BlackBerry Bridge available to customers anytime soon, but at least users can still get the software through various methods. If you're worried about AT&T catching up with you for using this method - don't be. Hit the link below for more info.

Install BlackBerry Bridge using Desktop Manager
Install BlackBerry Bridge OTA to your device

Source: BerryReview

I've had a few days now to play around with BlackBerry Bridge on my PlayBook, and I have to say I do love the functionality. Granted it's not perfect (yet) but for the most part it does get the job done. While the obvious lack of BBM is a big issue at the moment, I am still hopefully that we'll see it (along with other apps) in the near future. I do have some gripes thus far -- some are big ones and some may just be "wishful thinking" -- that could stand to make BlackBerry Bridge a much better overall expierience for BlackBerry users. So keep reading for my short list of five improvements that could make BlackBerry Bridge better.

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So here's a neat little observation/tip that we didn't previously notice or mention here on the blogs about the BlackBerry PlayBook. It turns out that when you connect a BlackBerry PlayBook tablet to a BlackBerry Smartphone via the BlackBerry Bridge, that the Saved WiFi networks stored on the smartphone automatically transfer over to the PlayBook's saved WiFi NetWorks.

You can easily view the PlayBook's saved WiFi Networks by heading to Settings > Wi-Fi and changing the Select a network menu option to Saved Networks.

While the BlackBerry Tablet OS does have some filling out to do, it's nice to come across a little surprise like this. It's a good example of how RIM is showing that devices like smartphones and tablets can play nice together. 

While  AT&T is still blocking BlackBerry Bridge at this point, they have at least offered up an official statement on the matter. In case you missed it - AT&T is currently preventing its customers from download BlackBerry Bridge to use with the PlayBook. It appears that they still want to do some testing with the app before releasing it to customers. Spokesman Seth Bloom said:

AT&T is working with RIM to make the BlackBerry Bridge app available for AT&T customers. We have just received the app for testing and before it's made available to AT&T customers we want to ensure it delivers a quality experience for our customers. 

Why it wasn't tested before release day is beyond me, but hopefully it won't be a long process. AT&T is the only carrier holding back on offering up BlackBerry Bridge, so keep your fingers crossed that all goes well. For now if you're an AT&T customer you can grab BlackBerry Bridge OTA.

Source: Phonescoop