Top 10 BlackBerry apps

Research in Motion's BlackBerry remains the smartphone of choice for many enterprises, even though Apple and Android devices have grown in prominance over the past 12 months.

Enterprise users are attracted to RIM devices such as the flagship BlackBerry Torch owing to their enhanced security and messaging features.

However, RIM still has some catching up to do in terms of apps, as there are currently over 20,000 apps in BlackBerry App World, compared to the 300,000 plus in the Apple App Store and 200,000 in the Android Market.

Ahead of the launch of the BlackBerry PlayBook tablet, we've rounded up some of the best apps available.

Dishonourable mentions go to the Dropbox and Seesmic apps, which refused to let us log-in to our accounts despite changing passwords and rebooting our device several times. A resolution for these applications is being sought and we will post any further updates when we receive them.

10. File Manager Pro - Zip and File Utility (£4.15 with free trial available)

This useful tool allows users to manage files very easily without having to sync the smartphone to a PC.

There is a simple interface, and users can access all files from the device memory and micro-SD card quickly from the main menu.

It is possible to search for, view and move files on the phone. The app is also able to compress large office documents, PDFs and even groups of files with one-click.

This helps to save memory on the device and cuts down on the amount of data allowance used if a document or presentation needs to be sent directly from the phone.

9. BlackTrack Lite Activity Management (Free)

A time tracking tool that helps to keep a complete record of  phone calls, text messages and emails that have been sent and received.

BlackTrack automatically logs the time, date and duration of the activity. The time spent reading or writing each email is recorded, for example.

Users can also choose what they want recorded. So text messages can go unrecorded if desired, as can all calls under a specified amount of time.

The app is easy to navigate, and users can view their log, send it and add notes if required.

The developer claims that the app helps to make billing, cost recovery and timesheets pain free, and we're hard pressed to disagree.