BlackBerry to discontinue app store on December 31, 2019

Signifying an end of an era and the complete dissolution of the BlackBerry app ecosystem, the BlackBerry app store will close its doors for good on December 31, 2019. This means no access to apps or updates of apps for BB10 devices which, at this point, are only being marginally supported. Even the BlackBerry PRIV is no longer supported (no more updates) which means it can expect to die a slow excruciating update-less death. This is BlackBerry the company washing its hands completely from their mobile devices, which at this point, are just a burden to support.

Now, BlackBerry Mobile, a subsidiary of TCL, is the company that's released the KEYOne and the Motion smartphones and they will continue to create and support those devices. They have nothing to do with the PRIV or earlier handsets but are offering a possible trade-in program to help users transition to newer devices. It's a sad reality but one that has been coming for years for true BlackBerry fans. Many of who have had to sideload Android apps just to try and get by.

Source: Engadget

BlackBerry ends support for Priv

Keeping in line with the company’s two-year support policy, BlackBerry is ending its support for the Priv. This means the monthly security updates will stop rolling in, except for “critical” vulnerabilities that might need work. The Canadian company also said they will soon be unveiling a trade-up program for existing BlackBerry Priv users and those with BB10 and BBOS devices. The program will include discounts and incentives to purchase a new Keyone or Motion.

According to BlackBerry, support for BB10 and BBOS devices will continue on for at least two years. However, some “ancillary services” will be shut down soon including BlackBerry World app store (December 31, 2019), BlackBerry Travel site (February 2018), and Playbook video calling services (March 2018).

Source: GSMArena

Blackberry Motion and KEYOne available for $100 off in limited Black Friday promos

Black Friday after Thanksgiving is probably the best time to get either the BlackBerry Motion or BlackBerry KEYOne for $100 off. The KEYOne remains one of the most unique Android experiences and the robust and secure (not to mention water and dust resistant) BlackBerry Motion is simply one of the best midrange smartphones in the market.

Several retailers across Canada are now offering up to $100 off the BlackBerry Mobile lineup from now until November 27. Various carriers are offering the devices on limited discounted plans. Hit jump for the details.

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Review: Jaybird Run wireless Bluetooth headphones

By Gadjo Cardenas Sevilla

Jaybird's path to a true wireless Bluetooth set of headphones for active users is evident in its Freedom and X3 line of wired headphones and the excellent Jaybird smartphone app that helps fine tune audio to a user's needs.

2017 has been all about wireless bluetooth headphones. Apple's AirPods have been around for around a year and have really set the bar for convenient and user-friendly bluetooth headphones. Google's Pixel Buds, which are starting to ship right now, bring Google Assistant to Android users while providing generally impressive sound quality as well.

Jaybird's Run, like the AirPods, are two earbuds that don't require a connecting cord and can be used independently or together to play back music and audio from a smartphone or PC. 

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