Last night T-Mobile released OS 4.6.1.231 for the BlackBerry Curve 8900. OS 4.6.1.250 is actually the latest official OS for the 8900, but I figured I’d post this for those that only like using their own carrier’s OS.

• Device Fixes
  • Improved battery life
  • Improved software performance and stability
  • Improved UMA and data performance
  • Enhancements to audio and speakerphone
• Resolved Known Issues
  • Message icon and myFaves interface disappear after Enterprise Activation
  • myFaves contacts display an hourglass after a software upgrade
  • Missing myFaves user interface missing after a SIM swap
  • myFaves user interface missing after a SIM swap
  • Error: ‘Uncaught Exception’

You can find and download this OS at tmobile.com/bbupgrade. You need to have a T-Mobile number in order to access the downloads. If you need help upgrading your OS click here.

via T-Mobile Forums

I’ve gotten a bunch of emails asking me whether or not I have heard anything new about the BlackBerry Magnum or any other upcoming BlackBerry devices. Until now I’ve had no updates besides what was leaked at the end of 2008.

One of BGR’s ninjas was able to get some info about three upcoming and confirmed BlackBerry devices:

BlackBerry Onyx:

• GSM/GPRS/EDGE/UMTS device
• GPS
• Camera
• Wi-Fi (no UMA support)
• QWERTY keyboard
• 480×360 resolution screen
• Confirmed carriers: AT&T

BlackBerry Driftwood:

• GSM/GPRS/EDGE/UMTS device
• GPS
• Camera
• Wi-Fi with UMA
• QWERTY keyboard

BlackBerry Magnum:

• GSM/GPRS/EDGE/UMTS device
• GPS
• Camera
• Wi-Fi (no UMA support)
• QWERTY keyboard
• 480×360 resolution screen
• Confirmed carriers: AT&T

So far it looks like the Driftwood and the Magnum might be the same device, but meant for different carriers. BGR also says that the BlackBerry Bold might get refreshed to allow UMA connectivity.

The Onyx, Driftwood and Magnum are part of the 9000 series, so they will all be 3G capable.

Who’s excited about these upcoming BlackBerrys!?

Source: BGR

My buddy Troy over at BlackBerry News let me know about a pretty cool guide on how to use any UMA enabled BlackBerry on T-Mobile.

Normally, cell phones on a network are locked to that network. If you get a BlackBerry Bold, unlock it and would like to use its UMA capabilities on T-Mobile, now you can.

Check out the steps for how to do this after the jump. If you aren’t comfortable with making changes like this to your BlackBerry then you should not try this. Let me know how it works out for you in the comments.

CONTINUE READING »

Just got an email from an Edelman UK rep. Orange is going to be adding 3G to its existing UMA services, letting users switch between cellular and home wifi networks, increasing data and multimedia capabilities.

Orange today announces the launch of the world’s first 3G unlicensed mobile access (UMA) platform, opening up a new world of multimedia services to its Unik customers.  Launching first with two exclusive Orange handsets from Samsung and Sony Ericsson, UMA and 3G network technology will be combined in one device for the very first time.
Orange’s UMA service (Unik) allows customers to use a single handset to make calls by seamlessly switching from fixed WiFi to mobile cellular networks as they leave or enter their home or office. For the first time Orange will bring together 3G and UMA technology in a move that will see customers experience richer content services and faster data speeds on Orange’s 3G and WiFi networks more cost-effectively.

Read the whole press release at Orange.com.

This is good news for UMA BlackBerry users that live in the UK or travel within the UK.

Thanks Beth!