BlackBerry® Bold™

[Senator]

What is the optimal video format, screen size and screen resolution for importing video to the Blackberry Bold?

[urumilton]

Try add the video through Blackberry Desktop Manager with media , and when you are doing the software ask you if you want convert to optimal resolution, click yes.

[Senator]

Thanks for your post, but unfortunately this does not answer my question. In fact, I have done some testing and determined that the conversion process through the Blackberry Desktop Manager is not very efficient. I would like to know specifically, what is the most efficient format supported by the Blackberry Bold (MP4, 3GP, WMV, etc.), what is the appropriate quality specification and frame size. I have determined the frame size, it is 480 x 320.

It is my intention to use a 3rd party application to perform the conversions so I would also be interested in a recommendation on that as well.

[MichaelHeath]

 Hi - I have also had these problems and would like to know the best programme for converting video to a format that will play on the Bold 9000. The desktop manager can't cope with the files - it freezes - and although the web site states that .avi files and .wmv files are playable on the 9000, I just get an error message. Is there a size limit does anyone know? I have a 1GB micro card reader and there is still plenty of space on it but maybe the 9000 can only handle very small video files???

Thanks

[urumilton]

The most efficient format supported by the Blackberry Bold is 3GP.

3GP is the latest technology designed to play FREE 3GP videos and mobile music on mobile phones. 3GP format is playable on all 3G mobile phones. Mobile videos & Download Music Videos can easily be shared Via Infrared, Bluetooth or mobile data cable.

Here is one link to download to windows one free program to convert 3gp to mp4

http://www.dvdvideosoft.com/products/dvd/Free-3GP-Video-Converter.htm

[MichaelHeath]

Thanks for your helpful reply - I will download the converter and try playing 3GP. Cheers.

M

[Senator]

With regard to my original question, I find that 3GP is not the most efficient format in terms of space utilization and definetely not the best quality. Although, itt may be efficient from the standpoint of transmitting the file wirelessly.

[MichaelHeath]

Hi Senator - what would you consider the best format? The offical site claims the 9000 will play .avi files and .wmv files - but I cannot get them to play. I can play 3GP files but, as oyu say, the quality is inferior.

M

[Senator]

Hi Michael - I am still experimenting (and inquiring) to find the optimal specifications; format, frame rate, quality, screen resolution, etc. "Watch this space" and I'll keep you informed. However, the fact that you cannot play other formats is troubling. I suggest you make that your first priority. Personally, I am using an 8Gb media card, but I doubt that should make a difference. I have not tried .avi files, but I have had good luck with .wmv.

[MichaelHeath]

Were the .wmv files you have successfully played small in size? I tried one that was 10 minutes in length but the Blackberry just couldn't open it. I have also discovered another problem - the method of "fast forward" or "reverse" is to roll the track ball up to highlight the time line and then click and roll forwards or backwards (the time expired figure alters accordingly). The trouble is, if you then roll back and click on the play button (which is when the video should play from the new point) it freezes. Again, I do not have this problem with the short demo videos that come with the unit, but it happens with files I have loaded myself.

M.