Well, I have been lurking and posting here for awhile, and finally getting an 8830. I have threatened to leave VZW quite a few times now, and they are going to give me a free 8830 to replace my Treo 700P.

I know I want the Google package for Google maps and Gmail, what else should I get? Is Ramble a good AIM client?

Thanks, and I'm totally excited to join the blackberry experience!

I think the consensus around here is that JiveTalk is probably the best IM application available for the 88xx series. Some people like others, but in general most seem to really think that the $20 is worth it for JiveTalk.

beejive :: JiveTalk mobile messaging

The google maps is nice. You don't really need the gmail part though, as you can hook up your gmail account directly through bb. I found that the BlackBerry Alerts program is a nice thing to have. My other stuff is more for what I need, and not really a must have.

Beyond411 is a must for me. I use it constantly. It's an amazing resourse for yellow pages, and directions.

Beyond411 Mobile Search

I recommend Beyond411 and Opera Mini as well, as far as the free applications. I also have JiveTalk for IM, and todoMatrix for an advanced task management program.

I recommend you do a search on the forum...

I also use JiveTalk, Google Maps and Beyond411. Another I like is BBWeather.

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ramble is a very bad client for aim. althought its free. it still disconnects frequently and is very slow. use JIVETALK- beejive.com. It's the best IM app out there for bb...

PocketDay, Beyond 411, BB Alerts, Google Maps, InfoSpace Search, Viigo.That should get u started. All must have apps IMHO.

Viigo! ... OMG, I love Viigo! ... The #1 Must have app IMHO..

Yeah I second Viigo and Beyond411. You may also want to check out instaspell if your blackberry does not have built in spellcheck

Thanks guys. So far I am diggin this device. The double space for a period is genious!

I have gotten google maps, its muck slicker than it was on my treo, and Opera makes the browsing experiance great! compared to my treo, this is broadband, it was dial up. I don't get it. Same network, different software.

I'm gonna check out Jivetalk, beyond 411, and viigo in a bit, I just have to find some time to play with my new toy!

Beyond411 "a must", silverMatrix (ideaMatrix + todoMatrix) REXwireless: BlackBerry Software Applications and MessageAlerts from webmessenger.com from is what I use!

lol.... (genius fyi)

Check out the Aftermarket Software forum on here, they have a running list of must have apps, and normally the really good ones have quite a bit of discussion. Check out BB Smart for email viewing, BB Alerts to keep you informed for missed calls and what not. Really it all depends on what your needs are as to what programs you will want installed.

I've tried 20+ apps and bought about 10. After a year, the only ones that I could not live without are ideamatrix and todomatrix. Highly recommend.
REXwireless: BlackBerry Software Applications

Viigo is a nice newsreader, but I eventually paid for the functionality of NewsGator. It syncs the feeds between my BB and my laptop so I don't end up reading the same thing twice. Plus, the interface is easy and quick.

I hope I am wrong but I believe there is and issue with Opera Mini and the 8830 which the original poster has.

by the way, how in the bloody hell does one add a plug in to beyond 411? I logged in as requested but cant see how to add a plugin on my Pearl 8100!