Wireless Device Software for BlackBerry Bold 9700

Originally posted April 15, 2010

BlackBerry ® BoldTM 9700 customers can now update their device's software over the air using the Rogers wireless network or through Wi-Fi.

To check if a BlackBerry Bold 9700 has the latest device software, customers will need to click on "Options" from their home screen, select "Advanced Options" and then "Wireless Update."

If an update is available they will be able to download and install it over the air with no charge for the data used during the update.

Eligibility & Restrictions:

Customers must have a BlackBerry data plan to perform updates over the air. Please note that Rogers Wireless customers with the $15 Personal Email plan are not eligible for wireless updates.

Customers will not be able to upgrade over the air while roaming but will be able to check for software update availability when they return to Canada.

Customers can use their device during the download process, but not during the installation process. They may pause or cancel the download process to make or receive calls, however, if the customer answers a call during the download process, the download process pauses automatically. The download process resumes once the call has ended.

Before performing a wireless software update, customers must make sure their device has the following:

• 64 MB of flash memory
• BlackBerry device software 5.0 or later
• Battery power level of at least 50%
• An available wireless network connection

Going Wireless With The Rogers Rocket Hub?

Originally posted February 17, 2010
The latest addition to the Rogers lineup is the Rocket Hub - a 3G wireless router, designed to bring high speed internet to even the most remote of locations. As long as you have access to the Rogers Wireless Network, you can access the web. In addition to high speed internet access, the Rocket Hub allows users the ability to connect their home phone lines for improved voice calling.

The device is powered by Sony Ericsson, and is only about the size of a regular paperback novel. A true "Plug and Play" item, the user plugs the device into a power outlet and immediately connects to the Rogers 3G network.

The single phone port on the back of the device allows rural areas to receive telephone service without having to wait for service providers to install phone lines - a task that can take weeks. As the device relies on the wireless network, it must be connected for users to be able to make calls - if the power goes out, there is no wireless connection.

Benefits of the Rocket Hub:

• Extremely user friendly through set up - a true "Plug and Play" device
• Ability to share internet connection between up to thirteen computers
• Voice calling through the wireless network (not VoIP)
• 3G connectivity allows fast mobile connection and high speed internet up to 7.2 mbps
• Has Wi-Fi capabilities
• Highly portable device - can be used anywhere that there is an AC power outlet and cellular coverage
• Quality build but lightweight

Downsides to the Rocket Hub:

• The device runs at very high temperatures - heat dispersion is not particularly good
• Reception and wireless access depends on the location of the user
• The device requires HSPA / 3.5G network access to be able to work
• The device must be connected to an AC power outlet for internet connection - although there is a portable, external battery option available, this will only allow voice calls to be made

User Review after Using the Rocket Hub:

• The product is convenient for those in need of a wireless / LAN network for either personal or business use, in areas where service is regularly unavailable
• The speed generated on the device averaged about 4mbps on our review (during peak times), which is ideal for internet browsing, email, and streaming video. During off-peak times, the speed increased to 6mbps.
• Slight disappointment that the device is not HSPA+ ready with the ability to reach speeds of 21mbps, considering that this will soon become standard on the Rogers Wireless network
• This would not be a good solution for those users looking to use the Rocket Hub for online gaming purposes - internet response time is not fast enough
• Although the Rocket Hub is made of plastic, it has a solid and durable feel to it when on hand. It doesn't break easily upon moving, and its lightweight design allows for ease of carrying
• The voice quality of calls made using the Rocket Hub were comparable to making a cellular telephone call - much better than using VoIP.

Target Market

The Rocket Hub is a suitable product for any customer who requires access to high speed internet and / or voice services, for personal or business use. There are two plans available to suit that usage, starting at $35 per month for the data only option.