BlackBerry Quick Tip: How to Transfer Files via Bluetooth in OS 5.0
CIO.com's BlackBerry beat-reporter Al Sacco details the process for transferring media and other files wirelessly via Bluetooth between BlackBerry smartphones running OS 5.0.
CIO — You can transfer information and files between BlackBerry smartphones in countless ways, but one of the quickest and easiest methods is via Bluetooth.
Bluetooth is a short-range wireless technology that allows for small- to medium-sized file transfers, and it's perfect for sending pictures, songs and small video clips between mobile devices at a range of up to about 30 feet.
I penned my first tutorial on transferring files between BlackBerry smartphones via Bluetooth more than two years ago, but since then, RIM released a major OS upgrade to BlackBerry OS v5.0, and the process for Bluetooth file transfers has become more "polished."
It's possible to transfer files using Bluetooth via a wide variety of mobile devices. However, this quick tip will focus on how to transfer files using Bluetooth from one BlackBerry to another. Keep moving for step-by-step instructions on how to activate your BlackBerry Bluetooth, pair with another device and then both send and receive files.
And if you're still seeking more expert BlackBerry tips and tricks after this walkthrough, pop on over to my BlackBerry Bible page.
Activating BlackBerry Bluetooth and Pairing Devices
First things first, you need to turn on your BlackBerry's Bluetooth. To do so, simply open your Manage Connections menu by clicking the appropriate icon on your BlackBerry home screen--it looks like a vertical bar with wireless signal on its sides, at least in default BlackBerry themes. (See image below.)
After you've opened the Manage Connections options, ensure that the box next to Bluetooth is checked.
Next you'll want to "pair" your device with the BlackBerry you wish to transfer files to. Bluetooth will have to be activated on both devices, so first repeat the above process for the second device if Bluetooth isn't already turned on.
Pair the two device so you can transfer files by once again opening your Manage Connections menu, on both devices, but this time pick one of the BlackBerrys and choose Set Up Bluetooth. The following screen, labeled Add Device, displays a few options: Search; Listen; and Cancel.
You want to search for a new device so you can pair your BlackBerrys; however, by default, new BlackBerrys have Bluetooth set to "hidden" as a security measure, so unwanted or unauthorized parties can't connect to your device without your knowledge. That means you'll have to ensure that the BlackBerry you're attempting to connect to is "discoverable."
To modify Bluetooth discovery settings, open the Manage Connections menu again, but this time, click on Bluetooth Options. Then, on the following screen, hit your BlackBerry Menu key--located directly to the left of your trackball/trackpad--and choose Options.
