uTrack for the BlackBerry PlayBook is a unique project management application

Have you checked out uTrack for the BlackBerry PlayBook yet? Those who seek a task/project management tool may find this application will stick with you. I say this because it offers an interestingly familiar way to manage projects and its corresponding details. Memo pads are used many different ways in an office (home offices as well); quick reminders, messages and office pranks (kick me) are just a few applications. Perhaps at your company you have a boardroom with a huge whiteboard that is littered with these, each representing a task for a much larger project. You move them around as you decide on which ones are more of a priority, or as items get processed. It’s a simple representation on project tracking and management that helps everyone see what needs to be done. The white board becomes the go to wall for what needs to be accomplished, until it meets its demise thanks to a careless member of the cleaning staff. uTrack lets you track the same thing, minus the paper cuts.

 

With your PlayBook in hand, open up uTrack application. A wallpaper resembling a lined notepad holds your current project. Tapping on it brings you to a wall filled with virtual post its; the wall is divided into four categories – To Do, In Progress, Verify and Done. Within each of these categories is where you will be posting your notes/tasks. At first glance, you will only see the subject of the task, but by tapping on a task, you can see any additional notes you may have entered. When viewing or creating a note, you can assign a colour which you can set any meaning to, such as urgency or type of task or who is the owner of that task.

Moving the notes between categories, or up and down within the same category, is as simple as pressing and dragging. So as you review your work, this effortless management will require less attention, enabling you to focus on getting the work done. If you are within a wall you’ll also notice three buttons at the bottom, allowing you to clear all tasks off of a wall, change the name of the wall or delete the wall itself.

Now the lite (free) version of uTrack allows you to make use of only 1 virtual wall and manage up to 10 notes at a time. Recently, Tenpearls released a Pro version of uTrack, which brings you support for:

That is a lot of notes to manage! To be honest, I wouldn’t know what to do if I had to manage those in the real world. Oh, wait, yes I do; I’d file them in the trash bin. The notes only support text input, which is a bit unfortunate. I would like to be able to attach images or sketch/jot down quick visual ideas as well. Maybe that’s something to think about for a future update. Both versions of uTrack, Pro for $4.99 and uTrack Lite, can be picked up from BlackBerry App World.

More information/download uTrack Lite for the BlackBerry PlayBook

More information/download uTrack Pro for the BlackBerry PlayBook

 

Virtual Contact for Twitter on your BlackBerry PlayBook

Still looking for a Twitter application on your BlackBerry PlayBook? Need to manage multiple Twitter accounts? Then Virtual Contact for Twitter may be the answer for you! Created by Babin Moisan Solutions Inc., Virtual Contact for Twitter is a FREE Twitter client available only for the BlackBerry PlayBook. I didn't realize how feature packed this app really was until I checked out the creator's videos on his YouTube channel. He takes you step by step through all of the features listed below.

There are very few Twitter applications available for the BlackBerry PlayBook and even fewer ones that I actually like. Virtual Contact is easy to use & has the features most of us desire. The fact that it's a FREE Twitter client makes it so much more appealing to some. One of the things I would change is the dark color scheme. Maybe in future builds they may utilize the vibrant red & yellow colors of the logo to brighten up the UI a bit.

For more information / download of Virtual Contact for Twitter

Review: BlackBird for the BlackBerry PlayBook

So from day one, BlackBerry PlayBook users wanted a Twitter application for their PlayBook, instead of a quick launch icon to the Twitter mobile site. To be honest, up until recently, I couldn’t stand using the mobile site, as it wasn’t as functional (or attractive) as it is now. This left me with continuing to use a Twitter application on my BlackBerry smartphone. Some developers recognized the need and answered the call; one of which was GENOA Net Works.

Your Twitter account access is quick and seamless through their application called BlackBird. The application gives you almost as much access to your account as you have by accessing Twitter from your computer. Rather than viewing multiple items on the main screen (timeline, trends, followers/ following), everything is listed as tab; waiting to be opened. I was surprised to see BlackBird being able to offer so much, yet providing a minimal layout to it all. Was it enough to stop relying on my smartphone to access Twitter? Curious how BlackBird brings Twitter to the PlayBook nest? Keep reading.

 

As I mentioned before, BlackBird was developed by GENOA Net Works; an Austrian company first established back in 1996. GENOA is also responsible for over one hundred applications, including; ‘Find my Phone’, ‘add2contacts’ and multiple checklists (fishing, travel, etc). The current version of BlackBird is 1.3.2 and has a file size of 1.2 MB.

Cost: $1.99

Rating in BlackBerry App World: 3/5

Before getting started, you have to authorize BlackBird to use your Twitter account. With BlackBird, you can manage multiple accounts; though it’s unclear how many (I only have one). The UI is pretty simplistic and easy to navigate; all options appear on the left side of the timeline/content, rather than all around the timeline. Below the list of options, your current Twitter account will be displayed. It’s all about personal preference – some may feel like BlackBird is too simplistic, while others find that the app is not so overwhelming. My only gripe is I have to view my profile in order to look at my followers or who I follow. I still have access to other functions one would normally use on Twitter, such as viewing which lists I'm on, retweeting and sending/recieving direct message.

When you select “New Tweet”, the entry field shows “What’s up”, which you have to be careful with. I accidently pressed the Tweet button, which resulted in me asking every one what was up. BlackBird included an option to shorten an URL, so you had more characters to dazzle everyone with your wit. All I ask for, in future builds, is a spell check option to make sure I'm spelling everying korektlee.

As far as my timeline goes, I can only view 25 tweets at a time, with no option to look at older tweets - you do have a manual refresh button to bring in new ones. Scrolling up and down through the tweets was quite smooth, with no lagging. I can also set the automatic refresh rate to 1, 5, 10, 15, 30, 45 or 60 minutes (this doesn’t seem to save if I close the application). You can also check out what is trending but you're unable to change them to view more trends.

Now while I could appreciate how simple BlackBird is to use, and the basic view it provides. One of the perks missing - being able to view a full sized version of a profile pic.

 

If you want a simple way to access Twitter, then BlackBird is singing your song. Neatly organized, and effortless to master, this application should be considered. There are a few tweaks to look at - an easier way to see followers and how my tweets and profile pic, very sporadically show up when looking at another Twitter profile. If possible I would like to see some sort of notification if I receive a mention or DM as well. You can pick up BlackBird for $1.99 from BlackBerry App World.

More information/download BlackBird from BlackBerry App World

Conqu for the BlackBerry PlayBook now adds ConquSync & desktop version in beta

Back in June, I wrote about a great BlackBerry PlayBook app called Conqu. Now. the great folks over at AsFusion have released both a desktop version of their app as well as a wireless sync option. The app itself is a great task management tool that allows you to organize your to-do list and get things done.

The desktop version has the following options (pretty much the same as the PlayBook app):

The new ConquSync beta is an online backup and management tool for seamless integration with the Conqu family of applications. ConquSync has a 2 month free trial and a price tag of $53 a year. ConquSync offers:

For more information / download Conqu

For more information / download ConquSync & desktop version

NoteSmartly: Create notes with videos, audios & images on your BlackBerry PlayBook

Recently I was introduced to NoteSmartly for the BlackBerry PlayBook. Think to do List & note pad all rolled into one handy little app with some pretty cool extras. With NoteSmartly you have the option to attach pictures, audio/video clips and more. I am so glad I had this app when I recently dropped off my car to be serviced. I made notes of everything needing to be fixed and snapped a couple of pictures to go with them. Sure enough, when I got the car back several items hadn't been fixed correctly (the man super glued the handle back onto my sun roof shade instead of replacing it!). I opened up NoteSmartly and showed the service manager my notes & pictures...needless to say it's all fixed now and I definitely won't be going back to that dealership again.This is definitely an app to have it you create notes on the go. The additional option of attaching pics, video and such are a fantastic idea.

NoteSmartly Features:

Note Smarty also works great for creating multi-task to do lists. You can sort to do lists, set task priorities, mark levels of completion and have different categories.

NoteSmartly is currently available for $3.99 but there is also a NoteSmartly Lite (Free) version available with a few limitations

More information / download NoteSmartly

More information / download NoteSmartly Lite

LyricFind: a searchable database of lyrics for your BlackBerry PlayBook

LyricFind, the world’s leading provider of legal lyrics services, is excited to announce the release of their BlackBerry PlayBook application.

The application provides access to LyricFind’s huge database of lyrics. The database is searchable by artist, album and even the lyrics themselves.

With LyricFind you can also:

One of the major differences between the PlayBook version of this app and the other platforms is the split screen interface, with a list on the left side - search results, or

tracks in an album, for example - and the content on the right. The team at LyricFind kept the interface and navigation consistent and intuitive. This allowed them to use some of the

PlayBook conventions not present on other platforms - such as sliding

down from the top on the search screen to bring down the search "drawer".

This application is available via BlackBerry App World as of today for $2.99

More information / download LyricFind

ePhone turns your PlayBook into a ridiculously large phone

So besides the amazing Video Chat feature that PlayBook users have, there aren’t many other options available in order to reach out and touch someone. Skype is not officially available for the PlayBook at this time though workarounds do exist. In fact, a response found on their site pointed out that “We currently have no plans for the PlayBook…Hopefully the PlayBook will be a hit for RIM, and if so we will create a version of Skype for the product at that time.” You’ve got to love how vague that is.

Not too long ago, we received an email about Comwave ePhone. Currently in beta, ePhone can make/receive phone calls directly from your PlayBook! They do have a free 3 day trial period; where you can play around with 100 minutes, followed by an annual subscription of $20 if you decide to keep the service. With your subscription you get 250 minutes per month to use to call 57 countries. In the trial period, and with your subscription, you also get:

The mic and speakers on the PlayBook are both excellent to use if you are doing a conference call, but you may look like an idiot holding it up to your face to chat one on one. You can also visit shopcrackberry.com to pick up a handy headset or two. You can grab Comwave ePhone from BlackBerry App World.

More information/download ePhone for thr BlackBerry PlayBook

Using CostSplitter helps you keep track of where to send the hired goons

I’m not usually one to split a bill when it comes to a night out with friends. Most of the time, it ends up as “We’ll get it this time”, followed (hopefully) by “Ok, next time, it’s on us”. Since we frequent the same places, it tends to work out. Not everyone is like that, and not every situation is like that. You may prefer to keep track of the expenses, debts, and payments for everyone involved. Somebody has to do it right? So why you, you ask? Well, maybe you were put in charge of a group budget, maybe because you have a BlackBerry PlayBook, and maybe because of an app called CostSplitter that may help you out. CostSplitter, an application by Soulid Studio, is a much easier way to track than jotting info down in a memo on your smartphone.

The application organizes everything by events – could be a family bbq, a road trip or an out of town work function. There’s no help or options menu to be found, so you will have to rely on the sample event they provide. When you open an event, you can swap between three different views; Participants, Expenses and Report. In the Expenses section, you note down each item as an expense. You can then assign participants to the item. From there you can record who hasn’t paid, who has and how much. The reports screen then automatically summarizes who owes what to whom – based on the payment records you captured. I don’t worry too much about things like this, because it all tends to work out in the end with the people we know. If you do worry about such things, you may want to check CostSplitter out. You also may want to look at who you’re hanging out with. I did like how effortless it seemed to jot details down. I especially liked how I had the debt calculated for me. One feature I would like to see, is the possibility of exporting the report in a message, you know, as a friendly reminder. It sure beats busting some kneecaps. You can pick up CostSplitter for $0.99 from BlackBerry App World.

More information/download CostSplitter for the BlackBerry PlayBook

Bed-Buzz: The talking alarm clock for your BlackBerry PlayBook

Nothing is more annoying when you first wake up than the "beeping" of your alarm going off. A lot of us use our BlackBerry devices as an alarm clock and have had the luxury of different apps to choose from. Now it seems more and more people are starting to use their BlackBerry PlayBook for that same use. If you're one of them, you may want to check out the application called Bed-Buzz by Comantis LLC. The calm soothing music and melodic voice saying "Good Morning" and your name is a much nicer way of waking up. With the Bed-Buzz application, your personal greeting is followed by the time and current weather conditions and then the day's weather forecast. Keep reading for both the free and paid versions features.

Features:

With the paid version (currently priced at $2.99), you get all the options/functions in the free version plus the following:

Check out the video above for a demonstration of the free version. It's definitely a great alternative to standard alarms. With a free and paid version, it'll fit into anyone's budget.

More information / download Bed-Buzz Free

More information / purchase of Bed-Buzz

Mielophone - an open source, music streaming app for your PlayBook

If I’m sitting at my desk at my office, or at home, my PlayBook can be found nearby with playing music. (if not found in my hands). Music helps me be productive and drowns out the background noise that may distract me. Now on the PlayBook, there are a good number of options for streaming music. One of the more recent ones is Mielophone. It’s a minimalistic search application which streams music you request. It’s said to tap into numerous sources in order to deliver results and uses SoundCloud to search. There isn’t much to the app, which is both good and bad. Basically, you can search by Artist, Album or Song. Searching by Artist gives you a short bio and their discography.

Now while Mielophone makes it easy to access songs, the results may not be the ones you are looking for. Just as many have experienced when searching for music online, you will come across a vast number of covers and remixes. If you search by song, the chances of finding the original track (even if it says original) are slim. With a few of the artists I searched for, things looked promising. I found their discography and correct song titles. However, each and every single song was the incorrect one. The developer did explain how to get more music in our own forums.

Mielophone is currently in version 1.0.1 and has a lot of potential to be an incredibly powerful application. The music began playing within 3 to 5 seconds of selection while the audio quality actually depends on the file. Above and beyond the incorrect listings (and lack of original versions), a few features that would add more functionality would include managing a favourites list and the option to search by genre. If you want to check out Mielophone, you can get it for free from BlackBerry App World.

More informartion/download Mielophone for the BlackBerry PlayBook

BlackBerry App Roundup - 50 copies of Bubble Birds 2 by XIMAD up for grabs!

Welcome to this week's BlackBerry App Roundup! This week we have 50 copies of Bubble Birds 2 by XIMAD to give away! We have searched high and low and found some neat apps to share with you this week, so head on past the break to check them out and enter the contest! If you have an app you want to see featured in the roundup be sure to check the end of the post for information on submitting it to us.

 

Digitally Imported Radio By AudioAddict, Inc.

Tune into over 35 radio channels for the hottest electronic music from genres such as Trance, House, Dance, Lounge, Chillout, Techno, Ambient, and many more - right on your BlackBerry. The hand-programmed radio channels feature world renowned Artists, DJs, and the Hottest exclusive shows. Digitally Imported Radio is free and compatible with most BlackBerry smartphones.

FEATURES:

For more information/screenshots and to download Digitally Imported Radio

 

Date Calc by Tworoads Software

Date Calc calculates the date a given number of days in the past or the future, or the number of days between two dates. Date Calc can count calendar days or business days, including some common holidays (United States, Canada, Great Britian). After the calculation, you can click once to add the calculated date into your calendar. Available for most popular BlackBerry smartphones, you can pick up Date Calc for just $.99.

For more information/screenshots and to purchase Date Calc

 

Crazy Survival by TechSoft Adventures

So imagine that the world has gone mad and crazy balls are falling from heaven. What should a poor Man, caught in this insane weather do? Of course run and scream! The objective of the game is to keep the Man alive. A player should try to escape from as many balls as possible. The final score is the number of the balls that the Man has managed to avoid. Cool hand drawn graphics and smooth gameplay make this game a winner. Crazy Survival is free (ad supported) and available for all BlackBerry smartphones.

For more information/screenshots and to download Crazy Survival

 

Easy File Renamer for PlayBook by Aftab

Do you have a lot of image files with random names? Did you just download a lot of files that you wish to rename? Easy File Renamer allows you to do just that. Rename multiple files with ease without having press a lot of buttons. Easy File Renamer allows you to easily traverse through the BlackBerry PlayBook file system, rename files and also allows you to preview the files with the default application. It also has thumbnails that allows you to preview image files. You can pick this app up for just $.99.

For more information and to purchase Easy File Renamer

 

Fun up your images with free Photo Filters app

There seems to be all kinds of photo filtering apps flooding the app stores lately, each one striving to be better than the next. The latest to hit BlackBerry App World is the free app Photo Filters. Unlike some others, Photo Filters only offers filters off the bat (not any editing features) but you can purchase additional features if you want more. The free app includes Alien, Black & White, Exposure, Gain and others. If you choose to you can purchase an additional 16 filters to max out the app's capabilities. Photo Filters is a pretty cool app if you're looking to stick strictly with filters, but there are other photo apps with various features so take a look and see which one fits you best. Grab it free from BlackBerry App World at the link below.

More information/download of Photo Filters

 

miShuffle for Facebook: Update your status with a clever saying

Now, thanks to miShuffle for Facebook, I will never be at a loss for something to say on my Facebook page. The folks over at loopSpin Inc have given us a status shuffle application for our BlackBerry devices with a simple, easy to use UI and small footprint (115.9 KB). With miShuffle, you simply select one of the categories listed and choose your status. As a nice little addition you can even submit your own clever status sayings for others to enjoy (subject to approval first). There is also the ability to modify a status message before publishing it to your Facebook wall. The application works flawlessly on my device and updates my Facebook status immediately. MiShuffle is currently available for $1.99 (regular price is $2.99) so give it a shot and let us know what you think.

More information / purchase miShuffle

 

Bubble Birds 2: the Bubble Birds Project Sequel by XIMAD

Bubble Birds 2 is the new sequel to the popular Bubble Birds. This edition brings with it the same bright colors and cute graphics that you loved in the original game, but packs in new designs, levels and characters to make the game at once more challenging and more fun!

As usual, you have to match three or more birds of the same color to remove them from the field and score as many points as possible to top the Scoreboard. On each level you can shoot "coin" bubbles and then spend them on the level selection screen, buying either another attempt or opening some extra levels with the Golden Key. The levels in green are available for you to play. You can pay with your coins to open the levels in yellow. The red ones are not available for you at the moment. If you make several successful shots, every next ones will bring you a bonus!

XIMAD makes quality games, sure to entertain you. Be sure to check this one out! It's just $.99 (regularly $1.99) and available for all BlackBerry smartphones.

For more information/screenshots and to purchase Bubble Birds 2 from App World

For more information/screenshots and to purchase Bubble Birds 2 from the CB store

Contest: XIMAD has given us 50 copies of Bubble Birds 2 to pass on to you guys! If you'd like to enter, leave a comment below. One entry per person please! Contest ends this Sunday at midnight PST.

 

Well there you have it folks! Be sure to check out New BlackBerry Apps, Updated BlackBerry Apps and Free BlackBerry Apps available at ShopCrackBerry.com. If you are a developer and want to have your app shown in the roundup or you're interested in having us host a contest for you, drop me an email at cbmichelle[@]crackberry.com. See you all next week!

Tilebreaker X for the BlackBerry PlayBook

As CrackBerry addicts we're all aware of a little game known as BrickBreaker that comes preinstalled with our devices. Who would have guessed that a modern version of the classic arcade game Breakout would be the cause of so much procrastination and frustration. No matter what, a BlackBerry device just isn't the same without it. So when this game happened to pop up in App World it was a no brainer that I immediately downloaded it.

Tilebreaker X by Marius Heil is a Brickbreaker like game for your Playbook. For all you newbies out there the object of the game is simple. Using only a paddle and a ball you need to break all the tiles to clear them from the board. It sounds easy but half the time its easier said than done especially when you're playing on a larger scale. The only obvious difference between the two is the hidden powerups that descend when you break a tile are not exactly the same (I miss the laser). However, it's still enjoyable.

The great thing about this game is the option to change the controls. You have the choice of using your finger to drag the paddle, your thumbs to move the paddle by tapping on the sides of the screen, and, my personal favorite, using the accelerometer to tilt the device to move. I have to say it is hard to use the last one but touch controls are very responsive and you can adjust the sensitivity. I even played on the train ride home.

Currently there are two versions available. There is a free version with less levels and powerups and the full paid version for $1.99 with all 41 levels of brickbreaker like goodness. I have ro say the graphics are decent and it gets the job done. Not too shabby if you ask me and I've been playing this game in its many incarnations since I was a kid (Anyone remember Alleyway on Gameboy). You'd think I'd be better by now. So why not pick this up today and continue to ignore your work. Don't worry i won't tell your boss.

More information / download Tilebreaker X Free 

More information / purchase Tilebreaker X

Scrapbook for BlackBerry PlayBook updated bringing new wallpapers, stickers, and Facebook sharing!

Back in May at the BlackBerry World Conference, Scrapbook was unveiled for the BlackBerry PlayBook. This app was developed by The Astonishing Tribe (TAT) and is a fun way to put your pictures together with clip art and colorful backgrounds for sharing. I like using this app, as does my daughter, but I always wished there were more backgrounds and clip art to choose from.

Today that wish has been granted, as Scrapbook has been updated to v1.1.0.4 bringing with it new backgrounds and stickers, as well as the ability to share directly to Facebook from within the app. I'm more of a Twitter girl myself, so I hope a future update will bring that function as well, though I'm sure we won't see Twitter or email options within the app until these are native features of the PlayBook.

For more information and to download or update Scrapbook for your PlayBook

WordStone: A free and addicting word game for the BlackBerry PlayBook

   

If you haven't had a chance to explore BlackBerry App World recently there are a lot of cool games for the PlayBook. Since I spend a couple of hours on the train each day I make sure to try and play as many as I can to keep me occupied. That's how I found WordStone by Ocean Breeze Games Inc. For me, combining a long commute with an interesting word game really makes the time fly by and get the old noggin in gear. This game may cause significant bouts of procrastination when it comes to work. Consider yourself warned.

Seriously folks, this game has all the elements of a great word game. There's cool graphics (Aztec theme), a countdown timer at the top, a dragon at the bottom to show your progress, bomb tiles and immovable tiles (like Bookworm) and of course a difficult playing field. The object of the game is to use the sliding block to grab and rearrange the tiles to form words before your screen fills up and reaches the indicator line. Words must be between three and eight letters and you can even play two at a time. When you form a word it will light up for you to submit even if its not the one you originally intended. You don't always have to follow these suggestions but when you're almost ready to implode you need all the help you can get.

This is a fantastic word game and I almost missed my stop because of it. Not only is it challenging but when the playing field starts to fill up its nerve-wracking to try and come up with the next play. Believe me you have to be fast or you'll lose. Just be sure to grab the right letters. I have a tendency to go too fast and wind up rearranging the whole board.

There's just a couple things you need to know. There's no real way to pause the game unless you load another app and it only works in portrait mode. Faults aside, it's definitely one of those games that makes you wonder where the time went. Did I mention there's no lag? So why not go pick this up one today at BlackBerry App World. After all it is free.

More information / download WordStone from BlackBerry App World

Galaxy Painting - A cool new drawing app for the BlackBerry PlayBook

The holiday weekend has finally arrived. Time to pack your suitcases, load up the car, and hit the road for some fun. Before you can start you need to pick out a few items for the kids to keep them entertained. It's definitely the most important thing you can't be without. Looking through BlackBerry App World I happened to spy with my little eye this cute little gem that's sure to win over your kids with hours of fun.

Galaxy Painting by Rasmus Wriedt Larsen is a pretty nifty drawing tool for kids and adults of all ages. What caught my attention is that it's different from your average drawing app. All you do is drag your finger across the screen and a gorgeous array of different colored lines and points appear. They definitely stand out on the PlayBook's display. Your child can create all sorts of interesting and odd designs and be amazed watching how each image comes to life. There are endless possibilities as your child uses their imagination. 

Drawing settings are adjustable and each masterpiece is easily saved by pressing the cog icon or by using the volume buttons to take a screen shot. Comments suggested there was an issue when hiding the cog (to widen the drawing area) not reappearing. However, I found that if you don't touch the screen for more than two seconds it comes back.  

Features

I guess I'm just a kid at heart for enjoying this. Galaxy Painting is available at BlackBerry App World for free. So why not pick this up today and make this your child's next favorite app. Thanks Michelle.

More information / download Galaxy Painting for the BlackBerry PlayBook

ScoreMobile Tablet for the BlackBerry PlayBook and ScoreMobile FC for BlackBerry smartphones now available!

No matter what time of year it is, there are always sports to keep up with, and just because you're on the go is no reason to miss out. ScoreMobile has had one of the top apps for this for quite awhile now. Headlines, stats, blogs, schedules… you name it, ScoreMobile probably has it in their app. Today they have two new products to further assist you in staying on top of the game: ScoreMobile Tablet for the BlackBerry PlayBook and a Spanish edition of the BlackBerry app, ScoreMobile FC. Keep reading to learn what's new in each of these apps.

 

ScoreMobile Tablet

ScoreMobile is a comprehensive multi-sport app covering top worldwide leagues including MLB, NFL, NBA, NHL, EPL and PGA. It provides up-to-the-minute sports scores, stats, news, standings, betting odds and original video commentary. The perfect sidekick for sports fans, the PlayBook app also offers features for TV companion viewing, including interactive Live Blogs and Twitter streams of sporting events.

Personalization:

Download ScoreMobile Tablet free in BlackBerry App World

 

ScoreMobile FC

Just in time for Copa America, Latin America’s most important soccer event, ScoreMobile FC is now available for BlackBerry smartphones, providing coverage for Spanish-speaking soccer fans. With comprehensive coverage of over 60 leagues and competitions including Copa America, Copa Libertadores, Copa Sudamericana, and leagues in Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Colombia and Spain, the Spanish version of ScoreMobile FC will have die-hard soccer fans covered.

Just like the original ScoreMobile FC, the app is a free, comprehensive source of information offering:

Download ScoreMobile FC free in BlackBerry App World

Bring out your inner artist with Scroodle on your BlackBerry PlayBook

Scroodle, by Aberrant Software Inc, is an interactive drawing application with two differant colored chalk board backgrounds and a white board. With Scroodle on your BlackBerry playBook, you can draw and paint using your fingers as the chalk or markers. You can choose the colour and size of your drawing tool then create your doodles, tasks, notes or keep a 4 year old amused while you're waiting in line at the grocery store (trust me, it works!). Your work can be saved so that you can refer to it later or email it out to all your friends to show your artistry. It also has a built in screenshot option to cature the image (although using the volume keys is just as easy).

The app itself is very responsive although sometimes switching colors is a bit difficult. The app even works well when using a stylus which makes it great for jotting down a quick note or teaching my daycare kids how to write their alphabet. Best of all this app is totally FREE!

For more information / download of Scroodle

Test your music knowledge with Name This Song for the BlackBerry PlayBook

Name This Song for the BlackBerry PlayBook by JimmyO Software combines two of my favorite things into one package: trivia and music. Growing up I was always a fan of the game show Name that Tune so it was a no-brainer when I saw this one in App World. I find it to be a fun and addicting game to play if not frustrating at times. There are just some songs I am not familiar with at all (sorry Country). If you're looking for something to keep you entertained click on the break for more information and screen shots. 

Players compete against each other to be the first to identify the artist and song being played in the music clip. You're not just competing against other PlayBook owners but people logged in from every game site that hosts it including Facebook and Kongregate. Each match is based on style or category (i.e. Modern Rock, New Alternative, Country, Classic Rock) and consists of five songs. Players choose from among four possible answers and must tap on the corresponding thumbnail. Points are then awarded based on how fast you answer. Whoever has the highest score at the end is declared the winner. If you're not happy with how you're doing simply tap on another match to join.

It is a pretty cool game to play and I find myself spending too much time on it. Some users pointed out connectivity and song delay issues but after installing a recent update I didn't experience this. The only thing I noticed is that you can join a match currently in progress even if it's on Song 5. Other than that I think it's a really good way to challenge your music skills and discover new songs and artists to listen to. Just beware this game might cause you to jump on your computer to download or purchase some of the tunes played. Best of all, it's completely free.

More information / download Name This Song from BlackBerry App World

 

Kiddo Plus: An engaging app that will keep your child entertained while they learn

Kiddo Plus by Spice is a great educational tool for your kids (suggested ages are 0 to 5 years old), that teaches children the basics in several categories using vivid images, animation, music and on-screen interaction. If you're looking for a great game for your kids under 5, this in one to check out. Features include:

Flash cards: for ages 0-3:

Activity Mode: for ages 3-5:

This app comes pre-loaded with a 'Child Lock' that prevents accidental key presses, unwanted calls or data-loss even if you leave the device unattended with your child. I use this app to work with the kids in my daycare as well as one on one with my youngest child. Now that the app is also available for the PlayBook (no activity mode or child lock as of yet for the PB but it is listed as coming soon) it’s a nice addition to my lesson plans.

I suggest downloading the FREE version (has less categories) before paying for the Plus version to make sure it works on the device plus you can see if it’s an app the catches your child’s attention.

For more information / download of Kiddo Plus

For more information / download of Kiddo (free)