Report: RIM to launch QNX BlackBerry in 1st quarter

Research In Motion is slated to launch its first QNX-powered BlackBerry, code-named Colt, in the first quarter, according to a report today.

The timing of the launch is still conditional on the testing process, according to Boy Genius Report. Also of note, the blog reports that the first phone won't feature support for the BlackBerry Enterprise Server because of the complexities of rewriting the BES code for the new software. Instead, it will feature access to Microsoft's ActiveSync e-mail software.

The new timetable suggests an accelerated schedule for RIM, which has previously said it expects to have a phone using its QNX software out by the first half of 2012. The "superphones" are seen as key to RIM's potential turnaround.

RIM purchased QNX and its software to better compete with the newer operating systems offered by Apple and Google. The first device to run QNX, the PlayBook, has only seen mixed results in the market.

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RIM is hoping to have more luck with its BlackBerry line. BGR reports that the Colt will feature a 1-gigahertz processor, slower than the dual-core processors RIM executives previously said were likely to be found in the next-generation smartphones. BGR noted, however, that the specifications could change.

The news comes as RIM has pulled the wraps off several new BlackBerry devices and carrier partnerships. As I note here, it would be unwise to pick up the new BlackBerrys, which run an older operating system that will see less support once QNX becomes the focus for the company.