More PlayBook details revealed on RIM’s webcast

RIM’s PlayBook has been making waves since its announcement, and with RIM’s recent challenge, it’s no surprise it hasn’t died down. Last month, RIM announced that they will reward developers with a free PlayBook if they manage to get their app onto the BlackBerry store. Since then a lot of developers have turned their attention to RIM’s upcoming device(who can resist the urge of a free tablet right?). In a recent webcast that RIM hosted, we learnt quite a number of features the PlayBook is capable of. Some of the more interesting ones include:

– The PlayBook will have a few cool gestures for switching apps, showing the keyboard and displaying device information such as battery life (pictured above).

– The PlayBook will eventually support more than just Adobe AIR development. Developers will also be able to write apps for the PlayBook in Java and WebWorks.

– App deployment over the BES is not finalized. The first version is a WiFi only version so no direct connection with BES but there will be tethering. No more details just yet.

– The PlayBook will have capabilities that the BlackBerry doesn’t.

– The AIR SDK can leverage both front and rear facing cameras.

The PlayBook is also touted to have a “kick ass” video processor. Sounds like something I’d like to get my hands on. Who’s excited for the upcoming PlayBook?