The next version of BlackBerry’s on-device application store, App World, has been promising most notably a launch across much of Europe, but after digging around some documentation , it turns out that’s not the only thing waiting for us in version 1.1.
Flexible storage capabilities: This feature permits BlackBerry App World™ storefront users to remove applications from their BlackBerry® devices and reinstall the applications without paying for the application a second time. BlackBerry App World archives a record of the application to save memory and so that the user does not have to maintain the application on the BlackBerry device. BlackBerry App World users can also install or archive applications on expandable memory, such as a media card.
Web site for BlackBerry App World: This feature permits users to read descriptions and reviews and view screen shots of applications even if they are not BlackBerry App World users. Users can find applications by using the search function, selecting an application category, or browsing by Featured Items, Top Free, Top Paid, or Newest Applications. Users can visit the web site for BlackBerry App World at www.blackberry.com/appworld.
Saving on application memory is a pretty big deal for BlackBerry, but it’s unclear how exactly App World hopes to do it. Does installing on a microSD card mean we’ll be able run the apps from the memory card as well? Unnamed sources are saying no, but you can’t blame a guy for dreaming. Archiving unused applications, however, seems like a fine utility, one that had been previously pioneered by Aerize, and could save some hassle for people who want to keep all their apps. RIM actually gave us an official nod on the possibility of installing to a microSD card back in February.
As for a desktop browser-accessible catalog, that’s a bit of a no-brainer. It’s much easier to browse on your computer than on BlackBerry, especially with so many subcategories and screenshots to load up.
The July 20th. rumoured launch date has come and gone, so now most folks are saying the new release date is July 31st., this Friday.
[via BerryReview]