RIM ported the Android runtime environment to the BlackBerry PlayBook but that runtime is built on the phone specific v2.3.3 of Android. While this does not really limit the platform in features it does have a main drawback. Google has released v3.0 (Honeycomb) and v4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) of Android which have a more tablet friendly interface which is called a “Launcher” on Android.
A few tinkerers in the CrackBerry forums managed to get the Android launchers for Honeycomb and Ice Cream Sandwich to run on the PlayBook. This gives you a much nicer home screen interface from the Android player. This is not a huge deal but it is quite fun especially once you check out the video Shahzoor @BBin posted of it:
You can read more about the hack at this link in the CrackBerry forums and if you are feeling adventurous pick up the APK files here
Jon Not Registered
Posted: October 25, 2011 at 12:13 PM EST
Do some research. This is not the actual launcher from android 3.0, but an attempt to port the basic feel of honeycomb to phones in a launcher.
Ronen Halevy ( View Profile) - Posts: 3314
Posted: October 25, 2011 at 12:26 PM EST
That is a good point. I was thinking of avoiding posting it all together since it may simply confuse readers. Thanks for highlighting the distinction.
Jon Not Registered
Posted: October 25, 2011 at 12:30 PM EST
With all those launchers floating around, an easy mistake to make.