BlackBerry OS 10.3.1 Update Reportedly Rolling Out on February 19

BlackBerry will reportedly roll out BB10 OS version 10.3.1 starting February 19 to all BB10 devices. It is worth mentioning that only the BlackBerry Classic and BlackBerry Passport handsets come with the latest BB10 OS out-of-the-box.

The update was earlier expected to arrive in January, but was officially pushed back to February, reports N4BB - the publication that is now claiming the February 19 date based on information gleaned from BlackBerry sources. The report adds that the BB10 OS 10.3.1 update was due to be rolled on Saturday, but was pulled due to issues including erasing the data on the device.

For now, BlackBerry has yet to confirm the start of the rollout on February 19, and users are advised to take the reports of the release date with a pinch of salt as the company may yet run into unforeseen issues.                                                      

The BlackBerry OS 10.3.1 will be bringing the reverse contrast mode in other BlackBerry handsets. Blocking contacts from calling and texting will also be possible after the update. Additionally, users can hide the desired images and videos from others. Most importantly, the update will introduce the Blackberry Assistant, a Siri-like voice-based virtual assistant, which was revealed last year in July.

Furthermore, a Battery Saving mode has also been included with the update that cuts down on smartphone's display brightness, notifications and lowers the CPU performance for longer battery life. Customisation of notifications like particular ringtones for select callers and selecting an LED colour for notifications will also be possible.