RIM defends 7-inch form factor PlayBook tablet

BlackBerry maker, Research in Motion has defended its PlayBook tablet computer, calling it superior than others in the market.

RIM co-CEOs Jim Balsillie and Mike Lazaridis spoke against critical reviews for the tablet that described the tablet as unfinished and having been launched in a hurry to the market.

“I don’t think that’s fair,” said Balsillie said in an interview. Balsillie pointed out that more than 60 million BlackBerry smartphone users will be able to access their email on the tablet via BlackBerry Bridging functionality as reviews noted that that the tablet does not have native email and calendar applications.

The other big criticism for the tablet is its 7-inch form factor. Samsung’s 7-inch Galaxy Tab has also not seen much success and the company is not offering tablet with largest screens. Apple CEO Steve Jobs has also openly criticized the 7-icnh for factor.

Lazaridis defended the device saying, “It’s far more portable, it’s lighter in your hands, you can hold it for longer.” The BlackBerry PlayBook will go on sale in Canada and the U. S. on April 19.