BlackBerry BB10 update brings new Hub features, picture passwords, FM radio, and more

By Trevor Mogg January 29, 2014

BlackBerry Q10 review front apps — Image used with permission by copyright holder

BlackBerry on Tuesday introduced an update for its BB10 operating system, bringing with it “hundreds” of enhancements for owners of its Z10, Z30, Q5 and Q10 handsets.

Version 10.2.1, which BlackBerry is touting as an update that “lets you do more, more easily,” brings with it improved management of messages and notifications in BlackBerry Hub, the ability to create SMS and email groups, a picture-based password feature, a customizable Settings menu, and the ability to save webpages for reading offline later.

It also includes a new incoming call screen that allows you to swipe to the left to connect with the caller or swipe to the right if you’re busy or prefer not to talk, and features “new intuitive icons [that] allow you to instantly silence the call, or send a Reply Now response through BBM, SMS or email that you can’t answer the phone right away,” BlackBerry’s Donny Halliwell said in a blog post introducing the update.

An FM radio that doesn’t require a network connection to use also comes as part of 10.2.1, though this particular feature won’t show up on the Z10.

Something that doesn’t get a mention in Halliwell’s blog post but is likely to prove popular with some users is the improved support for Android app (APK file) installation, allowing for simple over-the-air installs of Android software. “Unlike before when you had to run though a lengthy process of converting and sideloading Android apps, OS 10.2.1 now lets you install them right on your device with just a few taps,” news site CrackBerry explains, though it adds that some apps work better than others.

The update is available globally now, although there may be delays for some device owners as the rollout is subject to carrier approvals.

Despite its wobbles and woes, BlackBerry is pressing on with its business, with new CEO John Chen attempting to steady the ship and save the company from extinction.

Keen to focus more on the enterprise market with sales and services, while at the same time maintaining and expanding its customer base in emerging markets with upcoming Foxconn-made phones, the troubled company is clearly determined to get moving again in the mobile market.

Editors' Recommendations

Contributing Editor

Not so many moons ago, Trevor moved from one tea-loving island nation that drives on the left (Britain) to another (Japan)…

Mobile

AirTags range: here’s how far the tracker can reach

An AirTag attached on a keyring

Apple AirTags are a helpful tool for tracking valuable possessions like wallets, keys, luggage, and backpacks. These tags employ various technologies that allow you to track your items from short and long distances using your compatible Apple device, such as an iPhone 15 Plus. You might wonder how far you can track your items with AirTags. It's time to find out.
AirTags range, explained

The range of AirTags varies depending on the method you use to locate them. A Bluetooth connection will work when your AirTags are close to your supported Apple device. Otherwise, Apple's Find My network is utilized. Luckily, you don't have to choose the method because it's selected behind the scenes automatically.

Mobile

The best Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 deals

A person holding a partially open Galaxy Z Fold 4.

While the more recent release of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 has turned attention away from the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4, the Z Fold 4 is still an incredibly capable smartphone. Newer tech releases often make previous generations much more affordable, and that’s certainly the case with the Z Fold 4. While much of what’s available out there are refurbished models, there’s some huge savings to be had on a Z Fold 4. Retailers like Amazon and Back Market offer great ways to save, and we’ve got all of the information you need to do so. Reading onward you’ll find links to the best Samsung Z Fold 4 deals you can shop right now, as well as a little information on what each retailer has to offer with a purchase.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 deals at Best Buy
The Unlocked 512GB model of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 is on clearance at Best Buy. The popular retailer is really showing up with this deal, which sees the Z Fold 4 marked down to $700 and makes for nearly $1,300 in savings. Even more savings are available if you have an eligible device trade-in.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 deals at Amazon
Amazon may currently have the widest variety of Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 deals. You’ll find both the 256GB and 512GB models discounted there, as though much of what's available are renewed models. Don't hold back because it's renewed, though, as Amazon has a great return policy should you receive something that doesn't live up to its condition. You can save even more when purchasing a Galaxy Z Fold 4 at Amazon if you have an eligible device to trade-in.

Mobile

Best refurbished iPhone deals: Get an iPhone 14 for $513

An iPhone 13 in white color option.

The Apple iPhone is one of the best phones on the market, and because of it they don’t often come cheap. There are some great iPhone deals out there, but it’s rare to find significant discounts on newer models without having to commit to a longterm contract with a carrier, and it’s even less frequent you come across one of the best iPhones with a major price drop. This is where shopping refurbished can come in handy. Refurbished iPhones — for the most part — will come backed with a functionality guarantee or extended return window, making refurbished iPhones as safe of a purchase as shopping new. There are a lot of refurbished iPhone models seeing great price drops right now, which is why we’ve done the heavy lifting of rounding up all of the best refurbished iPhone deals. You’ll find them below, as well as some information on which refurbished iPhone might be best for you.
iPhone XR -- from $136

A refurbished model but one that's unlocked and comes with a full one-year warranty, the Apple iPhone XR is still pretty stylish for its age. It has a large 6.1-inch LCD screen with 1,792 x 828 resolution with Liquid Retina technology ensuring it looks super sharp. Powered by the A12 Bionic chip, it's starting to show its age but still has potential. There's also a 12MP back camera that can shoot 4K videos while the front-facing camera is 7MP and ideal for selfie-taking.