A few weeks ago BlackBerry 7.1 became official in the U.K. through two networks. O2 UK were the first to drop it and then Three UK promptly followed suit. While customers have of those networks have been enjoying the updates, there hasn't been any follow up with the other three major networks in the UK. Of course, there are some BlackBerry users who don't mind installing other network udpates but there are some who prefer stock updates and sometimes those users can be left in the lurch when networks don't release them quickly enough.

It looks like RIM has helped to fix that issue and has released BlackBerry 7.1 in the UK for the following BlackBerry 7 smartphones - Bold 9900, Torch 9860 and 9810, Curve 9360 and 9380. For the Curve owners the update brings about and FM Radio app to utilise the built FM Radio on those Curve models. So, if you've been waiting to get your hands on the BlackBerry 7.1 update, get downloading now.

For more information and to download BlackBerry 7.1

Source: Tracy and Matt

OS 7.1.0.402 has leaked for the BlackBerry Torch 9860. This is an unofficial (leaked) OS, so while it's mostly safe to install, remember to use caution when updating your device. If you need help along the way, you can head into our help forums or check out some of our BlackBerry 101 articles including How to Install or Upgrade to a new OS or How to Upgrade Your BlackBerry OS Using App Loader. If you do install this OS, hit up the forums thread below for findings, fixes and more discussion.

*OS Disclaimer - Please Read: Keep in mind this is NOT an official release and as such is not supported by RIM or your Carrier. If you choose to install, do so at your own risk and only if you're comfortable in the process of upgrading and downgrading your device software. It is quite normal during operating system development for certain features to be crippled or disabled while others are tested, and these beta builds often reflect that. They are not always better. Depending on your BlackBerry comfort level, it may be best for you to wait for community feedback on a build before deciding to download and install for yourself or simply wait for the next official release. If you require support, you will find it in our CrackBerry forums via our extremely knowledgeable community base - do not contact your carrier or RIM for Beta OS technical support (their first course of action will be to advise you to downgrade to a supported OS). *

Download OS 7.1.0.402
Discuss more in the forums

Telenor Norway has officially released OS 7.1.0.342 for the BlackBerry Torch 9860. While this is an official release, remember to use caution when updating your device. If you need help along the way, you can head into our help forums or check out some of our BlackBerry 101 articles including How to Install or Upgrade to a new OS. If you do install this OS, hit up the forums thread below for findings, fixes and more discussion.

Download OS 7.1.0.342
Discuss more in the forums

If you had plans to buy a BlackBerry Torch 9860 or Curve 9380 from TELUS, you may want to do it sooner rather than later. A picture sent in by a CrackBerry reader indicates that these two devices will reach their end-of-life on the Canadian carrier on April 15th and 30th respectively. Both of these devices have been on TELUS less than a year, with the Torch launching last August and the Curve just last November. More than likely TELUS will continue to sell these two devices (as opposed to returning them to RIM), but when stock is depleted it won't be replenished. Bring on the BlackBerry 10 devices! Thanks for sending this in tipster! 

OS 7.1.0.342 has leaked for the BlackBerry Torch 9860. This is an unofficial (leaked) OS, so while it's mostly safe to install, remember to use caution when updating your device. If you need help along the way, you can head into our help forums or check out some of our BlackBerry 101 articles including How to Install or Upgrade to a new OS or How to Upgrade Your BlackBerry OS Using App Loader. If you do install this OS, hit up the forums thread below for findings, fixes and more discussion.

*OS Disclaimer - Please Read: Keep in mind this is NOT an official release and as such is not supported by RIM or your Carrier. If you choose to install, do so at your own risk and only if you're comfortable in the process of upgrading and downgrading your device software. It is quite normal during operating system development for certain features to be crippled or disabled while others are tested, and these beta builds often reflect that. They are not always better. Depending on your BlackBerry comfort level, it may be best for you to wait for community feedback on a build before deciding to download and install for yourself or simply wait for the next official release. If you require support, you will find it in our CrackBerry forums via our extremely knowledgeable community base - do not contact your carrier or RIM for Beta OS technical support (their first course of action will be to advise you to downgrade to a supported OS). *

Download OS 7.1.0.342 for the Torch 9860
Discuss more in the forums

Source: N4BB

*Update: Looks like A1 pulled OS 7.1.0.190 for unknown reasons, but there is a higher leaked version (OS 7.1.0.205) still available.*

Previously leaked for multiple devices, OS 7.1.0.190 is now official for the BlackBerry Torch 9860 from A1 Telekom Austria. If you were holding off installing this OS because you prefer to steer clear of leaks, you can go ahead and get to downloading and installing. Don't forget to remove the vendor.xml file and you should be good to go. As always, do a backup of your device before performing any OS upgrade.

Download OS 7.1.0.190 for the BlackBerry Torch 9860

Source: BerryMe.de

"Seidio knows its accessories and its customers; time and time again they create great products. The SURFACE case and SURFACE holster continue that grand tradition."

For those of you who don't know, gravity is my enemy. It rears its ugly head nearly every time I pick up my BlackBerry Smartphone or tablet. I frequently drop my phone, ram it into doorways, and put my Smartphone in a pocket along with dangerous objects like keys. I'll admit it; I'm a bit of a klutz. That's why I don't like my phone to go naked; for me, a case is a necessity.

I've been impressed by the accessories that Seidio makes. From the Innocase Active series to the Seidio Charging Vault, Seidio knows what it's doing. My latest find is the Seidio SURFACE case and holster for my BlackBerry Torch 9860. The case itself provides a good amount of protection without being bulky, and the slim design allows it to fits snugly and securely into its companion holster. I love that I can get protection without sacrificing the convenience of a holster.

Read Full Review

"The OtterBox Defender Series case is the ultimate protection for any device. If you need the most you can get -- this is it."

The OtterBox Defender Series case for the BlackBerry Torch 9850 and 9860 is overall one bada$$ case. It offers extreme protection from the harshest conditions and will certainly survive pretty much anything you can throw at it. The case itself is comprised of an inner hard shell and an outer silicone cover, giving it two layers of "you can scratch this" protection. The built-in screen protector is pretty sweet too although I did find it hard to type at times. Want to know more? Keep reading for my full review.

Read Full Review

Following up on the BlackBerry Bold 9900 and Torch 9810 getting leaks for OS 7.1.0.205, Torch 9860 owners can join in on the upgrade fun. If leaked OS' are your thing, then by all means grab your USB cable, fire up app loader, and get this one installed. Don't forget to back up your data first.

*OS Disclaimer - Please Read: Keep in mind this is NOT an official release and as such is not supported by RIM or your Carrier. If you choose to install, do so at your own risk and only if you're comfortable in the process of upgrading and downgrading your device software. It is quite normal during operating system development for certain features to be crippled or disabled while others are tested, and these beta builds often reflect that. They are not always better. Depending on your BlackBerry comfort level, it may be best for you to wait for community feedback on a build before deciding to download and install for yourself or simply wait for the next official release. If you require support, you will find it in our CrackBerry forums via our extremely knowledgeable community base - do not contact your carrier or RIM for Beta OS technical support (their first course of action will be to advise you to downgrade to a supported OS). *

Download the leaked OS 7.1.0.205 for the BlackBerry Torch 9860
Discuss more in the CrackBerry Forums

Source: N4BB

So far, the BlackBerry Bold 9900 and the BlackBerry Curve 9360 have been the only BlackBerry 7 smartphone available in the Philippines. In the past few days this has change with RIM launching five new BlackBerry 7 devices. Technically though it is only four as one of them is just the white version of the Bold 9900. So, the new devices to make it to the islands are the BlackBerry Bold 9790, Curve 9380, Torch 9860 and the Torch 9810.

They are available from authorised retailers and carriers already. The white Bold 9900 is available for Php 31,690, which is the same as the black model. Pricing for the other devices are: Bold 9790 - Php 22,890; Curve 9380 - Php 16,990; Torch 9860 - Php 24,690; Torch 9810 - Php 28,590. However, pricing may vary at different retail channels so perhaps it would be wise to shop around first.

For more information / Purchase BlackBerry 7 smartphones in the Philippines

BlackBerry Torch 9860 and Torch 9810 users get a fresh official OS today. Claro Brasil has released OS 7.0.0.598 for the Torch 9860 and Claro Guatemala has released the same for the Torch 9810. Things look fine and dandy with these so far, so if you're looking to update your OS, give them a spin and then hit the forums with your findings. As always, use caution when installing a new OS on your device.

Download OS 7.0.0.598 for the Torch 9810
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Download OS 7.0.0.598 for the Torch 9860
Discuss more in the forums

Going around the convention floor I've been seeing some awesome BlackBerry cases from different manufacturers. What struck my eye though was the unveiling of Trexta's new 2012 line of accessories for the new OS 7 devices and BlackBerry tablet. They are rolling out not one, not two, but five different types of cases for the new Bold 9900/30, Torch 9850/60, and Curve 9350/60/70. These are awesome cases that not only show off your sense of style (they come in a variety of colors to suit your tastes) but offer solid protection as well. More importantly they all come with the never leave home without magnet sleeper function. When trying out these cases the first thing I noticed was how solid they were and and how well they fit in your hands. They may look shiny but they are not slippery or bulky at all. These are well designed cases and a hands-on review of one of these babies is on the way. Click on the jump for more information.

Continue reading article

Some more Friday love in OS land, this time from Vodafone DE. They have released OS 7.0.0.585 for the BlackBerry Bold 9900, Torch 9810 and Torch 9860. It's hot off the presses so no reports of how it's running yet, so be sure to swing by the respective forum and let us know what you find out. As always, use caution when updating your device software.

Download OS 7.0.0.585 for the Bold 9900, Torch 9810 and Torch 9860

Discuss more in the Bold 9900 forums
Discuss more in the Torch 9810 forums
Discuss more in the Torch 9860 forums

Tis the season for sales, and AT&T has thrown down a pretty good one if you're looking to get a new BlackBerry right now. Sign up for a new 2 year contract with a minimum data service plan of $15 and you can get one of several BlackBerry devices for as little as a penny! Available devices include the new Torch 9860, Curve 3G, refurbished Pearl 3G, Curve 3G, or Torch 9800 for one cent. The Curve 9360 is available for $29.99, Torch 9810 for $49.99, or Bold 9900 for $199.99. Activation fees are also being waived with this sale.

Word has it this sale is only happening today, though on the AT&T website I didn't see an end date. Also worth noting, the sale is online only, though corporate stores should be able to price-match the online sale. Just call ahead to be sure. Thanks for sending this in rrrebo!

Source: AT&T

 

Not to be forgotten, the BlackBerry Torch 9860 also rolled into an official OS of 7.0.0.540. Realistically, the download is available across most Vodafone download pages but this one is for Vodafone UK. As OS' for the same device are universal, simply delete the vendor.xml file and you can load this one up on any carrier.

Download the official OS 7.0.0.540 for the BlackBerry Torch 9860 from Vodafone UK