Oh, BlackBerry browser, how the masses loathe thee. True, the default browser has seen some improvements over the last few months, especially with the new OS builds, but it is still lacking compared to other mobile browsers. True, too, that a WebKit browser coming at some point in 2010, but that’s then. This is now. And right now, both BOLT and Opera browsers are better choices. BOLT just got even better, as they’ve released version 1.6. It has a few new features, most notably the ability to set it as your default browser.
The ability to set a browser as default is key on the BlackBerry. So many times you’ll see links embedded in emails and other messages, and even if you have a third part browser installed, the links will open up in the normal BlackBerry browser. So you either have to deal with an inferior browser, or else copy and paste the link each time. There’s no harm in that, but it’s just not convenient.
Another welcome addition is the ability to store usernames and passwords, just like you do on your regular Web browser. I know some people are wary of such features, but I’m a fan. It means I don’t have to remember so many usernames and passwords. With this feature enabled, however, you’ll probably want some additional security on your phone, in case it is lost or stolen.
Other than that, it’s just incremental upgrades, which are always welcome. It means the browser is getting better at the little things while also getting better at the big things. You can check out the BOLT browser at http://boltbrowser.com/.
