Thread: Three reasons why the PlayBook will succeed

In what only seemed like an eternity, Research In Motion has finally released the BlackBerry PlayBook just three days ago, and let me (and millions of other BlackBerry addicts) tell you, the wait was completely worth it. Asides from the PlayBook receiving somewhat negative reviews and early criticism from various professionals, I firmly believe that the PlayBook will succeed in ways people could not even imagine.

Here are three reasons why the PlayBook will be a direct threat to Apple:

1. Constant Updates

Yes, the PlayBook does not have native email support. And yes, it is missing BlackBerry Messenger, which should have been initially launched with the final retaild build. But you know what? Research In Motion is not ignoring these critical updates. I spoke to Shaun Coghlan, Senior Product Manager at R.I.M. at the PlayBook Launch Party this week, and he claimed that although BBM was missing from the launch, it is something that is not going to be delayed for no longer than a couple of weeks. This is great news, because unlike Apple, who neglects critical updates for a lengthy period (copy & paste, anyone?), we can put our faith and trust in R.I.M. to deliver timely updates. And we have also had two PlayBook OS updates in a matter of two days, which is fantastic news for those who love to keep their technology up to date.

2. Access to Both BlackBerry App World and Android Marketplace

This is news that cannot be neglected when speaking about the PlayBook. The fact that it's having access to not only the full BlackBerry catalogue of apps, but the full Android Marketplace as well, is huge. Combining both app stores brings their total to over 330,000 apps, which is pretty darn impressive (if you compare it to Apple's App Store). You can count on the PlayBook for being your go-to tablet for BlackBerry/Android exclusive apps, which are not available in Apple's App Store.

3. The Size/Weight of the PlayBook

Once you hold the PlayBook in your hands, you truly feel how 'magical' it is in comparison to the iPad 2. When you hold an iPad 2, which is almost 10", you appreciate the effort Apple has put into creating an HD multimedia monster. It is truly beautiful, but in all honesty, unless you have a small laptop bag to carry with you all the time, chances are it's going to stay at home (mostly for quick reference).

The PlayBook truly changes the way you will carry your tablet around with you. It was designed so you can carry it around with you everywhere, without ever having to worry about space or weight. It fits into your purse. It fits into your suit jacket pocket for business executives. And yes, it even will fit into some jean or pant pockets as well (I've tried this - trust me). Size means everything.

Well, those are my main reasons why the PlayBook has a major advantage over other tablets, specifically the Apple iPad/iPad 2. Sound off in the comments below!

Yes it keeps getting better,and better.

The PlayBook is definitely it's own presence in the tablet world. I think it will do fine being not so much like the iPad.

I was watching a video on the Playbook review and watched the Blackberry Bridging and the guy commented saying something along the lines of BBM isnt present on this model but it better be on it when it's released...i paraphrased but obviously RIM didnt follow through. How does a tablet get released without a Contact, Calendar, and for RIM NO BBM! What is that? There is no Notepad either but does have Word Document. I was extremely disappointed to bridge my 9700 and not be able to use BBM.

With the keyboard, or typing in general, the Playbook doesn't even have Autotext! Autotext only works within the Bridging of your Blackberry apps. With this review I'm writing the word Playbook isn't even in the dictionary and it won't let me add it to an internal dictionary.

There was all this talk of RIM joining forces with Android to provide the Playbook with all these Android apps! Soo the Playbook gets released and users have no Android apps to download and use. The Playbook is pre-loaded with a Facebook and Twitter icon. I thought it was going to be like the Facebook 2.0 and Twitter application but it brings you straight to the normal desktop website. When I'm on the sites i put a check mark to remember me, but it never works. i always have to input my information again to log back on.

The sleep button/power button...what the kcuf were the developers thinking or how small are their kcufing fingers. the button is nearly impossible to push. its tiny as ****. Why wouldnt they just make a button like the play/pause button beside it.

Originally Posted by amyswan

The sleep button/power button...what the kcuf were the developers thinking or how small are their kcufing fingers. the button is nearly impossible to push. its tiny as ****. Why wouldnt they just make a button like the play/pause button beside it.

Lovely rant, Amy. Many feel your pain and we all agree it was released unfinished. What will be important is that RIM follows through on the software updates and features. Which they will.

I agree with many points that you bring up, Amy.

However, as Joe has mentioned, as soon as those software updates are released, the majority of issues (missing native apps, autocorrect, etc.) will be fixed.

But I do agree with you on the power button. It's way too small!!

I think that issues like battery and hardware have to be the most nerve racking for a company that releases a tech device. Sometimes issues don't come up until it's being used on a mass scale. Who can forget the iPhone antenna issue?

Curious, how often do u use the power button?

I use it all the time out of habit.

Ya.. The above reasons are exactly the good points for BlackBerry Playbook's Success. Apart from these, its price, performance, Installed base of 60 million BlackBerry users, Apps & Developers, 4G and portability held essential part in the success of it..

Multitasking capabilities are going to be the most appealing to other tablet users.

I believe that RIM was frantically trying to release this before the iPad2 came out and in their haste, left a LOT of things out...just to get it released. I also believe that the OS upgrades will be released fast and furious (the first movie was pretty good but I hear that F&F5 ROCKS).
The Playbook will keep getting better...except for the power buttons...

Honestly, having used the PlayBook for awhile now, I think the powerbutton is perfect. Anytime I need to push it I have no issues at all. I don't see where all the fuss is coming from on the powerbutton. I think it's better to keep the power button smaller than have a clunker sticking out the side. I'll post a video of how easy it is to use the power button just to show everyone how nice it really is.

Can't wait. I think I want one on my wish list.

Yeah!!! I love Playbook. Let's rock!!!

I had a chance to use the playbook at Best Buy, that is one beautiful Tablet, size wise and so versatile and sharp... oh my gosh... all I need is to win one of them on BBOS and I will truly be the happiest guy out her. Way to go RIM beautiful Job.

Hi, I completely agree, I have an IPAD (by default) and cannot wait to own/utilise a more serious machine for my work.

Welcome stewmac. Have a look around, read the BlackBerryOS Rules and Guidelines and the BlackBerry Forums FAQ to see how we roll here. Feel free to as any BlackBerry questions and we will get you the right answers.
Also, take a look at this thread, BBOS 50K Members Giveaway: Win a BlackBerry PlayBook from BlackBerryOS.com! and get in on your chance.

I own an iPad & I think the Playbook really could be something I'd consider buying.

Originally Posted by r99r

I own an iPad & I think the Playbook really could be something I'd consider buying.

What would you consider the best feature for you?