eWEEK content and product recommendations are editorially independent. We may make money when you click on links to our partners. Learn More.
Research In Motions BlackBerry PlayBook tablet has been on store shelves for months now. And most would agree that it has been largely ignored by consumers and enterprises alike.
The tablet earned low marks from reviewers and customers who didnt like that it shipped without native email and BlackBerry Messenger support. Others didnt like its small display and oddly designed operating system. As a result,the device is languishing on store shelves because of such major flaws.
Now, though, there are reports that RIM plans to launch a new version of its tabletlikely featuring 4G Long-Term Evolution (LTE) servicethat could launch at some point later this year. Exactly when that tablet will launch and whether itll be the same old PlayBook or something new remain to be seen. But RIM has confirmed that something is coming, and when it does, the company believes customers will be excited to get their hands on it.
For that to happen, however, RIM must not offer the same Playbook features and expect customers to have a change of heart about it. The company needs to offer up a new and improved tablet that actually appeals to a target market
Read on to find out what the next BlackBerry PlayBook needs to succeed:
1. 4G LTE is a must
All of the talk surrounding the next BlackBerry PlayBook says RIM will be including 4G LTE connectivity in the device. So, to not do so would be a huge blunder. Before anything else, RIM must bundle 4G LTE service in its next PlayBook.
2. BlackBerry 10 or bust
Although RIM offers its PlayBook operating system in its current tablet, the company shouldmodify BlackBerry 10 to work well on its next slate. The operating system, which RIM just showed off at BlackBerry World 2012, looks to be the best edition it has released in years. Therefore, it should make an appearance on any and all devices it sells.
3. A bigger screen
The current BlackBerry PlayBook comes with only a 7-inch screen. Considering the iPad and Samsungs Galaxy Tab 10.1 come with displays that dwarf the PlayBooks, RIM must respond with a nice, big option. Granted, itll cost more, but who cares? As long as RIM can market it properly, the bigger PlayBook should attract at least some customers.
4. A smaller option with a cheap price
At the same time, RIM shouldnt forget about the growing budget-conscious sector of the marketplace. Todays customers are still looking for smaller tablets, as long as they come in at a very affordable priceabout $200. Besides offering a new tablet with a larger screen, maybe RIM can offer a slightly updated version of its current slate and price that at $200. It might just help the firm attract more customers.
A Stylus Might Work With the New PlayBook
5. A commitment to the enterprise
One of the biggest issues with the BlackBerry PlayBook in its current form is that it doesnt really have a target market. At times, consumers might think that the device is designed for them, while at other times the corporate world might find some value in it. In the next PlayBook, RIM must make it abundantly clear that its designed for the enterprise.
6. A RIM rebranding
No product, no matter how spectacular, can be successful without the company offering it boasting a respected brand. So, in the next several months before the next PlayBook launches, RIM should endeavor to improve its branding and make stakeholders regain some lost respect for it. That should go a long way in improving the slates chances for success.
7. Some leadership at the top
RIM has a new CEO in Thorsten Heins. And so far, he hasnt proved that hes a true leader who can take the helm and steer RIM back to prosperity. Before the next PlayBook launches, Heins and his executive staff should make it clear to investors, employees and customers that they are in charge and ready to take on any and all challenges that might come their way. Effective leadership instills confidence in a company and eventually improves sales.
8. Stylus support
When Samsung launched the Galaxy Note, it was criticized for including stylus support. Now that the device has caught on, however, its widely believed that Samsung might be on to something. So, in addition to touch support in the next PlayBook, maybe RIM should include a stylus.The idea might appeal to enterprise users who arent so keen on using their fingers to tap around a display.
9. Remember the apps
The BlackBerry will be nothing without ample application support. So, RIM must get going on working with developers to bring as many programs to the PlayBook as possible. The more apps the device can support, the more successful it will be. Its as simple as that.
10. A highlight on security
One of the biggest concerns facing IT decision-makers right now is mobile security. Android might be a great platform for consumers, but in the enterprise, its pushed aside because of security concerns. What better way for RIM to get its device into the corporate world than to bundle all kinds of security features in the slate and promote it as widely as possible.RIM should be known as the security-conscious company in the tablet space.