Is the Blackberry Playbook actually in the game?

The BlackBerry PlayBook16GB Wi-Fi version ($499), 32GB Wi-Fi version ($599), 64GB Wi-FI version ($699)

Specs:
1 GHz Cortex-A9 dual-core
1 GB RAM
7" LCD Multitouch display (1024x600) capable of displaying 1080p through HDMI output
PowerVR SGX540 graphics processor
GPS, Accelerometer, 6-Axis Gyroscope
5MP rear-facing camera, 3MP forward-facing camera
Wi-Fi (802.11a/b/g/n)
Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR
runs BlackBerry Tablet OS (QNX)

In many respects, BlackBerry is considered the grandfather of the smart phone. Sure, one could also single out Palm as a pioneer as well, yet, it was Research In Motion that really took the cell phone experience to the next level. Lately, however, they've been a little behind the curve. While their phones are still embraced by the enterprise sector, RIM been losing traction to cooler (and some could argue more fun) offerings from Apple and Google.

This brings us to the BlackBerry PlayBook: RIM's answer to the tablet boom started by Apple two years ago. First unveiled on October 25, 2010, it appeared to be a real step forward for the smartphone maker. Running a 1 GHz dual-core processor, with 1 gig of ram and a high resolution 7" LCD display - it certainly looked to give Apple a run for its money. The company touted its tablet's many features like true multitasking, 1080p video playback, 3D graphic acceleration and 2 video cameras. Likewise, RIM would also use the PlayBook as the platform to launch their new operating system based on QNX, which they had recently acquired.

Then... nothing.

With no firm release date and constant rumors of battery life and development issues, the PlayBook began to look more like vaporware than RIM's answer to the tablet market. Since it's announcement Samsung would release it's first tablet and being work on its follow up, Apple would release the iPad 2 and hundreds of other vendors would join the market as well.

Finally and somewhat quietly on April 19th, 2011 - the PlayBook was released.

So what's good about it?

- Form factor. It may be smaller than most tablets. But it's surprisingly nice to hold and easier to carry around. Although, it's not as light as the size may indicate.

- The Operating System. QNX is very well designed, despite taking many cues from HP's WebOS. It's simple to navigate and intuitive. Likewise, the use of the screen's bezel as a means of accessing certain menus is a nice and smart touch. Learn more about QNX at labratsonline.com/qnx

- True Multitasking. It's impressive to run an HD video in the background on the Playbook, while also surfing a flash-enabled website with little-to-no hiccups. The processor in this unit was wisely chosen for performance and it shows.

- Flash enabled web-browsing. A sticking point for many Apple users, but not with the PlayBook. You'll have access everything the web has to offer.

- The Screen. It's vibrant and sharp. Despite a similar resolution to the iPad, it's smaller size brings the pixels closer together for a much cleaner image.

- HDMI out. As this tablet is built for the businessman on the go, the ability to display your presentation on a 1080p screen, in full 1080p, is a huge perk.

What's not good about it?

- Too secure!? Can a device be too secure? Certainly seems that way with the PlayBook. Curiously the device doesn't come with a dedicated email or calendar app. Likewise, BlackBerry users will need to tether their BlackBerry phone with the Playbook to share this information. It's silly and very cumbersome. Likewise, our testing has shown it to be very complicated process - with only a limited number of BB handsets working with the device.

- Price point. $499 is the same cost as an entry level iPad. Here you have a smaller screen, less functionality and no direct access to your BlackBerry mail and calender events without an additional device.

- No 3G. At the moment there is no PlayBook model with 3G connectivity. The only way to access the web is through Wi-Fi or by tethering the device to a BlackBerry phone. To make things more complicated, some carrier aren't allowing this option, which in turn affects the Mail and Calender bridge.

- App shortage. This is true of BlackBerry phones as well. Their selection simply can't hold a candle to Apple's or Android's offerings. Although this may change in the near future as QNX will have the ability to run Android apps of RIM's choosing.

- Touch Keyboard is just okay. Again, surprising considering this is coming from the company that perfected hardware keyboard for smartphones. The small real-estate provided by the touch-screen makes for some difficult typing scenarios.

- Lack of "Wow" factor. Perhaps the biggest misstep with this whole project. While the PlayBook is certainly capable, where is that extra layer of fun (or Magic, as Apple calls it) to elevate it above the competition? There is very little here to sway a customer from the iPad. That's perhaps it's biggest shortcoming.