BlackBerry has released a major software update today which brings a handful of new features for older BB10 smartphones that haven’t received a major update since OS 10.2.1 in 2014. It brings features that came preinstalled on latest devices, the BlackBerry Passport and Classic, so OS 10.3.1 is going to appeal more to users who have devices like the Z30, Z3, Z10, Q10 and the Q5. The update is also being rolled out to Porsche Design P’9983 and P’9982.
Apart from a visual overhaul users will receive features like BlackBerry Blend, Assistant, “battery boosting technology, as well as improvements for the BlackBerry Hub, camera, calendar, multimedia and much more.
The BlackBerry Classic and BlackBerry Passport both come with the Android Appstore pre-installed. With this update the Appstore will also be natively included in older device, previously it was only possible to sideload Amazon’s app offering.
BlackBerry Assistant is the company’s own take on a virtual private assistant. It now makes its way to older devices after debuting with new BB smartphones. Same goes for BlackBerry Blend which lets users access content and files stored on their device using a computer or a tablet.
Starting today the BlackBerry 10 OS 10.3.1 update is being released across Europe, Africa, Asia Pacific and the Middle East. Residents of countries where carrier approval is required for the update may have to wait for a while before they’re able to get their hands on the latest software.
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