Morrison (aka @moestepp) let me know that he has put together a video guide with instructions on how to install hybrid or beta OS versions using BlackBerry Desktop Software for Mac.

I’ve transcribed the steps (below) for those that prefer text, but the video is better since it offers visual aide. The BlackBerry used for this tutorial is a Curve 8310 on AT&T. Do this at your own risk and only if you are comfortable with using beta/leaked software.

Morrison has also provided links to beta OS files in DMG format for use with a Mac computer. This method is mainly used for a hybrid OS upgrade. If you are using a beta “you would typically include the radio file in the same folder” (according to Morrison).

• 8330 5.0.0.230 http://www.megaupload.com/?d=G4VGQBM9
  
• 8900 5.0.0.238 http://www.megaupload.com/?d=V0IQRULX
  
• 9000 5.0.0.238 http://www.megaupload.com/?d=S3CMOBM2
  
• 9530 5.0.0.230 http://www.megaupload.com/?d=PL31VO1W
  
• 9630 5.0.0.230 http://www.megaupload.com/?d=G1PURKUJ

Here are the steps for use with a hybrid:

1. Plug your BlackBerry into your MacBook with BlackBerry Desktop Manager running
2. Install the carrier recommended OS (in this case AT&T OS 4.5.0.110)
3. Reload the OS that the carrier recommended for the phone. This will download all the appropriate files that are required.
4. Have the hybrid OS handy (in this case 8330 OS 5.0.0.238)
5. Go to Hard Drive > Username > Library > Application Support > BlackBerry Desktop Manager > Device Applications > Folder with numbers and letters
6. Open the Java file containing the hybrid OS files
7. Select all the files in the hybrid OS folder
8. Drag and drop these files into the folder with numbers and letters found in step 5
9. When prompted to replace files, click on apply to all and then replace
10. Go to BlackBerry Desktop Manager (should be running in background) and click on Applications and click Check for Updates
11. It will say there are no new updates in the next screen. Click on Show Other Versions in this screen.
12. You will now find the carrier recommended OS that was installed in steps 2 and 3. Click on the radio button to the left so it is “selected” and then click on Select.
13. Click on Reload
14. You’re done!

The Desktop Manager for Mac will think it’s just reloading the current OS to the BlackBerry but since you copied over the files from the hybrid OS it will actually be loading a different OS. As always please make backups before attempting to install or upgrade anything.

If you decide to try this out let me know how it works for you in the comments!

Jamie just sent me this article about a guide on how to fix the annoying Nextel BlackBerry Curve 8350i echo problem.

Sprint released a statement today stating that:

“A voice echo issue with the RIM BlackBerry Curve 8350i has been reported on a limited subset of devices. The root cause of the voice echo issue has been identified and is being addressed in a software release MR2 that should be available in March.”

AND

“Meanwhile if a customer is experiencing the voice echo issue we suggest using the wired headset that comes in the box or using the speakerphone until the new software is available.”

WTF?!?!?!

SERIOUSLY???

USE YOUR SPEAKERPHONE OR HEADSET THAT COMES IN THE BOX?

Being the BlackBerry Bad-ass that I am, I have put together the following “How To” on how to do RIM and Sprint’s job for them, and create a “Hybrid Operating System” using parts of the Telus 8350i Operating System to fix your echo echo echo issues.

Be sure if you do this that you follow these instructions carefully. I am not zip up this “Hybrid OS” and post it because, well…I don’t want to get SUED BY RIM for hacking their shit. So it’s up to you…Either wait until MARCH or proceed at your own risk.

NOTE: I have successfully done this and confirmed the echo is gone on 10 Nextel 8350i’s.

While I am not responsible if you do something stupid (IE: NOT follow these instructions) and jack up your device, I will keep my eye out for anyone who is having issues and assist them…

Read more @ BlackBerryHomePage.com