User Guide

Basics

Basics

About the BlackBerry Desktop Software

The BlackBerry Desktop Software is designed to link the data, media files, and applications on your BlackBerry smartphone or your BlackBerry PlayBook tablet with your computer.

You can use the BlackBerry Desktop Software to do the following tasks with your smartphone or tablet:

Synchronize your media files (music, pictures, and videos)

Back up and restore your data

Update your BlackBerry Device Software or BlackBerry Tablet OS

Transfer your settings and data to a new smartphone or new tablet

Manage multiple smartphones and tablets

Charge your smartphone or tablet

Additionally, you can do the following tasks with your smartphone:

Synchronize your organizer data (calendar entries, contacts, tasks, and memos)

Manage and update your smartphone applications

Use your smartphone as a modem to connect to the Internet from your computer

Features that aren't supported for the tablet won't appear on the BlackBerry Desktop Software screens when your tablet is connected.

The first time you open the BlackBerry Desktop Software, you're prompted to set some preferences, like starting the software when you connect your smartphone or tablet and automatically checking for software updates.

The home screen of the BlackBerry Desktop Software provides you with quick access to common tasks and provides information about your connected smartphone or tablet, such as the model information and the last dates that your data was backed up and synchronized. If you have used the BlackBerry Desktop Software with other smartphones or tablets, you can connect these smartphones or tablets and switch between them using the Device menu.

Related information

Set up your smartphone with the BlackBerry Desktop Software, 8

Set up your tablet with the BlackBerry Desktop Software, 9

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Blackberry 7.1 manual Basics, About the BlackBerry Desktop Software, Related information

7.1 specifications

BlackBerry 7.1, an update to the iconic BlackBerry OS, was launched to enhance user experience and expand the functionality of BlackBerry devices. This iteration aimed to improve productivity and offer intuitive features tailored to the needs of professionals and everyday users alike. It maintained the QWERTY keyboard heritage that BlackBerry is known for, ensuring that the typing experience remained a strong draw for users transitioning from other smartphone platforms.

One of the standout features of BlackBerry 7.1 was the introduction of mobile hotspot functionality. This allowed users to share their smartphone's data connection with other devices, such as laptops and tablets, transforming the BlackBerry into a portable Wi-Fi hotspot. This was particularly advantageous for users who needed internet access on the go, enhancing the productivity capabilities of BlackBerry devices.

BlackBerry 7.1 also marked an improvement in multimedia capabilities. The update delivered enhanced application performance and support for high-definition video playback, making it easier to watch and share videos. The new BlackBerry Music Gateway supported streaming music to speakers through Bluetooth, offering an effortless way to enjoy audio without the hassle of cables.

The messaging experience received significant upgrades, too, with advancements in the BlackBerry Messenger (BBM) service, allowing for more interactive and engaging conversations through voice notes, images, and location sharing. This made communication not only efficient but also more personal and fun.

In addition, BlackBerry 7.1 introduced an improved web browser that leveraged WebKit technology, enabling faster browsing and better rendering of web pages. Users experienced a more seamless and responsive internet experience, making it easier to navigate through the increasingly complex online landscape.

Another remarkable feature was the inclusion of Blackberry Protect, which provided backup and remote wipe capabilities, ensuring user data could be secured even if the device was lost or stolen. This commitment to security remained a hallmark of BlackBerry devices and helped maintain trust with its user base.

Overall, BlackBerry 7.1 was a substantial enhancement to the OS, providing new features and improvements that aligned with the demands of a mobile-first world. With its focus on productivity, security, and communication, it reinforced BlackBerry’s reputation as a leading choice for business professionals while appealing to a wider audience seeking reliable smartphone functionality.