Lyricidal (aka @theiexplorers) has just released a cool, free desktop app called Create-A-JAD that allows you to create your own OTA (.jad) or desktop (.alx) installer files for BlackBerry apps. In order to make these OTA or desktop installer files you need to have the COD files of the chosen app handy.

Here’s how it works:

• Instructions
  • 1) Enter information requested (All are required except for description)
  • 2) Drag and drop all the files needed for your app install into the white box under Files.
  • 3) If you haven’t already, enter the filename (no extension) and choose what type of install you need: .JAD is for OTA, .ALX is for Desktop Install, and Both does both of them.
  • 4) Click Create It!
  • 5) Enjoy your new OTA/Desktop Install!
• Get Your OTA Up and Running
  • 1) Upload all .cods required, the .jad, and the .htaccess file created to your webspace
  • 2) Go to the link to your .jad file from your phone
  • 3) Install away!
• To Use In Desktop Install
  • 1) Copy and paste the created .alx file in your OS’s folder (ie. 9530-v4.7.0.167_P4.0.0.205)
  • 2) Copy and paste the .cod files into the Java folder (if you checked that box when creating the .alx) or into the same OS folder as step 1 (if you left the checkbox unchecked)
  • 3) Install using AppLoader (Loader.exe) or Desktop Manager

You can download Create-A-JAD directly to your PC by clicking here. Make sure you backup your BlackBerry data before installing apps made by Create-A-JAD just in case something goes wrong. If you try this app be sure to leave some feedback in the comments!

* UPDATE Comments submitted after 12AM EST on June 18th will not count. *

BAK2u let me know that PhoneBAKup has been officially released for BlackBerry and have given me 20 free copies to give away!

PhoneBAKup allows you to backup and restore your BlackBerry entirely Over-The-Air with a daily, weekly or monthly schedule. Easily backup all your device’s Address Book, Task, Calendar and MemoList to any predefined email address, all automatically.

Features:

• Backup: Just schedule the time ONCE to backup and it will run on the background, sending all the important data hassle free, daily, weekly or monthly. Backup to the storage card or Backup and Email directly to selected email address
• Restore: Simply download the backup files from the email to the device’s storage card and with a click, restore back all the vital information easily.
• Information can be restored to other devices as long as there is PhoneBAKup program running.

PhoneBAKup is available in the store for a one-time cost of $19.90 with a free trial available, no subscriptions or annual fees. You can also find it in the Mobile App Store soon.

This application is compatible with the BlackBerry Pearl (8100,8110,8120), Pearl Flip (8200,8220), Curve (8300,8310,8320), 8700 C/G/R, 8707 G/V,  8800, 8820, 8830, Curve 8900, Bold 9000 and the Storm 9500.

* The Giveaway Thanks to BAK2u I have 20 free copies of PhoneBAKup to give away. All you have to do to be considered is leave a comment on this post saying how useful you’d find this application! It doesn’t have to be an elaborate explanation, either.

This will end June 18th at 12AM EST and winners will be selected and announced later that day. Please use a valid email when leaving a comment so I can contact you if you are chosen. Good luck! *

I know it can be frustrating to those who want to download a cool application or theme but can’t because it is only available through an Over-the-Air (OTA) download. You usually need a data plan in order to install applications through an OTA download, but in some cases you don’t.

Here are some examples of when you don’t need a data plan to install an OTA application:

• The application is a theme
• The application does not require a data plan or data connection to work
• You have access to the .jad and .cod file links

Keep in mind, the easiest way to download an application or theme is directly through an OTA link using your BlackBerry Browser. For this tutorial I will be using the application XBerryLive.

Use these links to jump to a particular section of the guide:

• Install applications or themes via OTA using data
• Install applications or themes via OTA without data

WARNING: Do this at your own risk. I am not responsible for any problems that may occur as a result of following this guide. Like I always say…make plenty of backups!

How To: Install applications and themes via OTA with or without using data