BlackBerry World

[boogerman]

I have bought a BB Torch 9800 in a country with full support for BB and after 6 months the provider still maintains Appworld 'is coming soon'. I realise there are *complicated* reaons for Appworld not being available in my country but without being able to download, buy or install any applications, ring tones or themes, the Torch remains not really much of a phone. There are much better Android and Apple offerings which are as an added bonus customisable. So the solution for me is quite simple (albeit not what I wanted): kick my own butt, chuck the BB in the bin and vow never to go BB again - the control is just archaic!

I do hope I'm not abusing this forum but do need to share:

DO NOT BUY BLACKBERRY IF APPWORLD IS NOT SUPPORTED IN YOUR COUNTRY.

(for those that do have it you won't know just what I am talking about)

Thanks

[sdgardne · Accepted solution]

Hello!

To add some clarity, anyone can check this page to ensure they meet the minimum requirements (including if it is available in their country):

• http://na.blackberry.com/eng/services/appworld/download.jsp

If it is available in their country and they feel they meet the device-level system requirements, then contact the carrier to ensure that they meet the service plan (from them) requirements for access (via their network) to AppWorld.

Further, the latest version of AppWorld is currently accessible solely via the carrier data network -- WiFi is not used to access AppWorld under any circumstances. One must therefore subscribe to an adequate level data plan in order for AppWorld to function.

• KB23854"A data plan is required to use this feature" sometimes appears in BlackBerry App World

Further still, do be aware that AppWorld is merely a portal, vending apps developed mainly by others. As such, it is not the exclusive procurement source -- there are others that one can try:

• AppWorld in selected countries

• MobiHand everywhere in the world

• Handango everywhere in the world

• BPlay everywhere in the world

• GetJAR everywhere in the world

I have found that there are very few apps that are exclusive to AppWorld. One can search the on-line catalog and then search out other procurement sources, including quite often the developer website itself.

Lastly, do understand that RIM does not have unilateral control over the availability of AppWorld. Rather, a triad of entities must agree -- RIM, the wireless service provider, and the government. As the primary for-profit entity in that triad, I've always suspected that RIM is not the one who would be impeding the process.

Good luck!

[boogerman]

October 2011 saw Blackberry appworld debut in Namibia. Woot!