The newly announced BlackBerry Z30 smartphone comes with the next version of the BlackBerry 10 operating system already installed, but what about the dedicated fans who own a different BlackBerry 10 smartphone? The good news is, BlackBerry 10.2 will be coming to the BlackBerry Z10, Q10, and Q5 after mid-October.
So what does version 10.2 contain? According to the Z30’s press release, there are, “Hundreds of refinements,” across the OS, along with several new features to try out. Certainly the highest profile of these is the BlackBerry Priority Hub. The BlackBerry Hub stores every kind of notification, message, email, alert, and even call logs all in one place. The Priority Hub aims to remove the clutter by making important content more obvious, something it learns by observing how you use the phone, and it’s quickly accessed through a new home screen icon.
BlackBerry Messenger has been brought to the forefront in 10.2, as messages can be previewed, dismissed, or responded to regardless of where you are in the OS, even if you’re using another app. The new Instant Previews feature adds a preview to all your lock screen icons, making in unnecessary to unlock the device just to check the content of new messages or notifications. It’s all easily customizable too, for example if you don’t want social networking previews on the lock screen, just turn them off.
Version 10.2 also introduces BlackBerry Natural Sound, which promises improved audio in both BBM Voice and BBM Video chats. This is highlighted in the Z30’s promo video, where it’s claimed conversations will sound like you’re both in the same room. The new BBM Groups feature has been more deeply integrated into the BlackBerry Hub, plus BlackBerry promises improved battery life with 10.2 installed.
BlackBerry says it wants the update out during October, but it’s arrival on your phone is going to be dictated by your network, as the software must be approved before it’s sent out. As this process can take several weeks, don’t be disheartened if BlackBerry 10.2 doesn’t turn up until November or December.
