Research in Motion (RIM) has announced updates to its developer ecosystem programs, including BlackBerry Dev Alpha test devices, the 10k developer commitment, updated tools and more.

In addition to the ongoing developer conference (DEVCON) being held in Bangkok, RIM will also host a global developer forum on January 21, 2013 and BlackBerry DEVCON Europe in Amsterdam from February 7-8.

RIM aims to have over 100,000 applications available on BlackBerry World when it begins to deliver its next-generation BlackBerry 10 smartphones globally in February 2013.

RIM has held talks with over 25,000 application developers around the globe over the past six months, aiming to entice them to join the BlackBerry 10 ecosystem, according to Alec Saunders, vice president, Developer Relations and Ecosystems at RIM.

The BlackBerry Dev Alpha program is expanding to include a BlackBerry Dev Alpha C test device for developers who want to test applications on a BlackBerry 10 device with a physical keyboard, RIM said in a press release.

Developers currently testing their applications on BlackBerry Dev Alpha test devices can now apply to be eligible for a limited edition BlackBerry 10 device. RIM will swap a BlackBerry Dev Alpha test device for a limited edition BlackBerry 10 smartphone after they launch, RIM added.

The BlackBerry smartphones will support Chinese functionalities, including interface and inputs. China-based Internet service providers including Beidu, Sina.com, NetEase, QQ.com, Taobao.com and Tuding001.com reportedly have all entered development for the BlackBerry 10 platform, according to industry sources.

By: DocMemory
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