It's that time of year again folks. Time for students to bid adieu to those long nights cramming, writing and studying and transition into the real world. Whether they are graduating to the next level or joining the work force, we've put together a list of some BlackBerry goodies to help them on their way. From devices to accessories to apps - we have it all in one place so you can find just what you need for that special grad in your life.!
CrackBerry Guide to Great Gifts for Grads
Device
First things first be sure to pick up a shiny new BlackBerry device. Nothing says congratulations than a brand new toy to play with. Better yet, with all the new devices scheduled to hit the market this year why not give them an IOU for a brand new Bold 9900. It's definitely something the Crack Team is looking forward to. Although I'm with Joseph and want the Torch 2.
Applications
Managing Time
After graduating the first thing I did was slack off on the couch. GTD apps are just the thing to help them focus and put things in order. Just10Minutes lets them keep track of meetings, interviews, and assignments. It also creates personalized categories, sets due dates, and integrates with the native BlackBerry task application. Just10Minutes offers a free trial and is $3.99 at the CrackBerry App Store for all devices.
More information / purchase Just10Minutes
Our review of Just10Minutes
Money and Career
Take it from me student loans are due pretty quickly after graduation. SmartBudget for the BlackBerry PlayBook is just the app to help track expenses and create a budget so that you'll never miss a monthly payment. It's available at BlackBerry App World for $2.99.
More information / purchase SmartBudget by Quang Nguyen
My company recently started using social networking sites to recruit new hires. Open up a job seeker premium account and download the free LinkedIn App today to start browsing through opportunities. I also recommend purchasing Xobni Pro (the Super Address Book) for $1.99 as it integrates with LinkedIn and is a great way to keep track of their new business contacts.
More information / purchase Xobni from the CrackBerry App Store
More information / purchase Xobni from BlackBerry App World
Download LinkedIn for BlackBerry
Music
Running around Manhattan looking for job wasn't easy. What helped me get by was listening to my music. Now that Slacker has launched their new premium radio with on-demand services pick them up a subscription so they can listen to all their music on the go. Take it with you on your PlayBook or on your BlackBerry device.
More information / download of Slacker
Purchase a Slacker Radio Subscription
Games
To keep their brain in shape, pick up MobileQs Trivia Game. It comes with an assortment of categories, difficulty levels, hints, and a leader board which is sure to keep their mind in top form. MobileQ is available at the CrackBerry Store for $1.99. It's compatible with all devices running OS 4.5 and higher and is currently 50% off.
More information / purchase MobileQ's Trivia Game
More information / purchase expansion packs
Productivity
There's a reason why it's the Swiss Army Knife of BlackBerry Apps and voted Best OS Enhancement App 2010 by CrackBerry. It's because it takes your device to the next level. Why be limited to just one convenience key when you can create your own shortcuts. With an easy to use interface and a built-in screen shot app it is a must have for your device. QuickLaunch is currently $4.99 at the CrackBerry App Store.
More information / purchase QuickLaunch
Our review of QuickLaunch
Accessories
Bluetooth
Owning a Bluetooth headset is probably the most indispensable tool in a graduate's arsenal. What better way to pound the pavement, answer calls, and listen to music? The Plantronics Voyager Pro+ is comfortable, has superior audio quality, and can stream music for those downtimes in-between appointments and classes.
More information / purchase Plantronics Voyager PRO+ Bluetooth headset
All Bluetooth headsets
Batteries
While you're out searching for a job you need your device to last throughout the day. After all, your graduate is checking their email, social networking sites, listening to music, and doing phone interviews. They can't always do this on one charge. Pick them up a spare or extended battery to help them last.
More information / purchase BlackBerry Batteries
More information / purchase BlackBerry SuperBundles
More infromation / purchase BlackBerry Battery Life Bundle
Cases
Whether they're in an office, on the beach, or in a classroom there's a chance that serious harm may befall their device. Keep it safe from falls and scratches with an OtterBox case that is sure to offer maximum protection no matter where they are.
More information / purchase OtterBox Cases
Memory Card
BlackBerry SD cards are a great way to transfer important information back and forth. Not only that but it's pretty handy for storing digital music, pictures, term papers, and most importantly resumes. I always keep mine there just in case an opportunity presents itself. A 16GB card holds over 2,500 songs and lets you cache your Slacker stations with your new account.
More information / purchase SanDisk 16GB microSDHC card
All available memory cards
Our review of the 16GB microSDHC card
Tablet
Finally, why not go all out for your graduate on their special day and pick up the BlackBerry PlayBook. It's the ultimate accessory especially when bridged to your BlackBerry device. With its unbelievable specs this is the best productivity, entertainment, and communication tool on the market. Plus don't forget portability with its 7" screen. Play games, listen to music, write papers, read books, apply to jobs, and video chat with friends all at the same time. What more can you ask for? It will definitely put a smile on their face.
PlayBook Hub Page
BlackBerry PlayBook Review
Any (or all) of these items will make your grad enjoy their achievement that much more. Now these are only some suggestions to help you along the way. Feel free to stop by and browse through the CrackBerry App Store and ShopCrackBerry for anything else they need. Special thanks to our very own Yousif Abdullah for his help.
Congratulations to the Class of 2011!
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