BlackBerry OS 2.0 allows PlayBook owners to install and run Android applications. Those apps need to be repackaged by developers, and run in an emulator environment on the tablet.
Unfortunately, not all Android developers are ready to repackage their applications for RIM’s PlayBook. While PlayBook owners wait for their favorite applications to be released officially on the tablet, some unofficial, pirated versions of some Android apps for PlayBook OS have become available. These applications have been repackaged by third-parties and are being distributed outside Google Play and BlackBerry App World, which means no income is being made by the original developer.
RIM has taken notice of the issue and is determined to do something about it.
“We’re removing sideloading for consumers,” said Saunders. “Piracy is a huge problem for Android devs, and we don’t want to duplicate the chaotic cesspool of Android Market. Pretty sure we’ve got a solution for devs.”
RIM will push a software update to the PlayBook in the near future that blocks the ability to sideload applications. This means applications will only be available through BlackBerry App World, a policy that runs parallel to Apple’s application policy for their iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch devices.