Internationally, there was a lot of hype around the launch of the iPad 2, but here in Jamaica, I predict there will be a lot of hype around the launch of the RIM BlackBerry Playbook.

The Playbook is BlackBerry's offering to the tablet revolution. The long - (and I mean long) anticipated device was initially scheduled to be available late last year. RIM delayed the release until April 19.

The BlackBerry-branded 7" tablet boasts a 1 GHz processor with 1 GB of RAM, pushing a beautiful 1024 x 600 pixel display. Twin HD cameras (front and rear facing), HDMI out, a micro SD card slot, Bluetooth, and GPS are key features. It is small enough to be held comfortably in one hand, and has a rubberised exterior for better grip and no physical buttons.

Tablets are tablets; lots of touch screens, cameras and processing power. But the Playbook sets itself apart from the hoards of tablet options because it is neither an iOS nor an Android device. Forget BlackBerry OS6, RIM decided to go with its own QNX BlackBerry tablet OS. This new OS supports true multi-tasking, allowing several apps to operate simultaneously.

Speaking of apps, BlackBerry has long, and still does, lagged behind its competitors in app offerings. But, thanks to a loyal developer community, the Playbook will launch with a collection of both familiar and exclusive apps. There will be some impressive games, Flash support and Kobo, a book reader. To sweeten the deal, the Playbook will run Android apps over an emulator (another app that tricks the device into thinking it is something it is not).

native 3G capability

Missing from the Playbook will be onboard email, calendar and BlackBerry Messenger (BBM). Don't panic yet, because this is where the Playbook really distinguishes itself from the pack. You will either love or hate this feature. Using Bluetooth ¨, BlackBerry Bridge connects your Playbook to your existing BlackBerry handset to enable access to email, calendar and BBM. Everything on your phone is mirrored on the larger Playbook screen; brilliant! No handset, not access; lu!

Also missing from the initial Playbook is native 3G capability. Outside of WiFi, users can tether their tablet to their handset to access 3G Internet power.

Timing is everything and soon 3G will be offered by every local mobile telecom. I can't imagine using a Playbook on EDGE (Enhanced Data rates for Global Evolution in case you care). 3G offers faster, more reliable data speeds of up to 2.4 Mbps.

In practical terms, this means you don't have to wait as long for your Google search results; you can update your Facebook status with a picture faster, you can download or stream videos, and you can do it all while in a moving vehicle (assuming you are not driving the vehicle).

The Playbook can operate as a stand-alone device and has great security. But its true potential is tied, for better or for worse, to a BlackBerry handset. Since BlackBerry is still THE most popular smartphone in Jamaica, Playbook can be a hit, an easy transition for BlackBerry owners. Forget the need to tether and the absence of popular apps, the really limiting factor of the Playbook will be the Bluetooth ¨ battery drain.

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