Advanced Features

Use the advanced features of the BlackBerry® Java® Development Environment (BlackBerry JDE) to bring your applications to a new level of function and design. Create your own custom applications and integrate them seamlessly with BlackBerry smartphones. The following are just some of the advanced features of developing with the BlackBerry JDE.

Some of the most widely used Java® ME applications were created by Research In Motion (RIM)—use these to your advantage by integrating your applications with the BlackBerry® Browser, messaging, calendar, BlackBerry® Maps, camera and search applications.

• Review Java® documentation

Unlike other mobile development frameworks, the BlackBerry application framework allows your applications to remain running in the background (in “sleep” mode). Use the BlackBerry server-side push technology with true mobile OS multi-tasking to create dynamic applications such as Instant Messaging (IM) clients and more.

• Try the Threading Examples tutorial and lab

The introduction of Bluetooth® functionality with BlackBerry smartphones in BlackBerry® Device Software v4.3 ushered in a new wave of possibilities for BlackBerry smartphones. Design applications that extend to various types of Bluetooth hardware, including headsets, printers, writing devices and GPS transmitters. Since both the Java environment and Bluetooth protocols follow industry standards, integrating these devices with a BlackBerry smartphone is easier than you might imagine.

• Try the Bluetooth tutorial and lab

Without a doubt, location-based services are one of the hottest topics in mobile development and BlackBerry smartphones are at the front of the pack. Support for JSR 179 provides the GPS functionality (available on some BlackBerry smartphones) to incorporate location-based services into your applications.

• Read the GPS and BlackBerry Maps Development Guide (PDF)
• Try the Introduction to Location-based Services tutorial and lab

Take advantage of the rich multimedia capabilities of BlackBerry smartphones using JSR-135 (MMAPI) or the BlackBerry smartphone’s media player. Functionality includes audio playback and recording, along with video playback and streaming.

• Read the Multimedia Development Guide (PDF)
• Try the Multimedia tutorial and lab

Security is a fundamental part the BlackBerry solution. BlackBerry smartphones are equipped with industry-leading cryptography APIs, including a full-blown PKI and state-of-the-art elliptic curve support. Learn how to leverage these security capabilities in your own applications.

• Try the Basic Encryption and Decryption tutorial and lab
• Try the Advanced features of the Cryptography API tutorial and lab