Welcome to The Bold Explorer

BlackBerry Bold without BlackBerry Internet Service (BIS)

Introductions

This is a consolidated setup guide for the BlackBerry Bold 99xx. It was last (partially) updated in July 2021.

The Bold 99xx can be configured to use over wifi and with a regular data plan (i.e., without BIS). You should be aware that fewer and fewer websites and connected apps work on the device due to its outdated security protocols. Most users won't be happy with the limitations. In the U.S., your carrier will be shutting down 3G in 2022, but you may be able to keep using the bold over 2G with US Mobile. See this link for further information. I'm Canadian, so I have no way of confirming this in practice.

I try to keep the guide up to date, but I don't use all of the apps listed, so it relies on reports from other users. Please leave any feedback in this thread at CrackBerry. See also the Bold 99xx Working and Dead Apps List.

More information on the apps discussed below can be found on the app information page.

Optional Step

Before you begin, you should consider installing the latest version of OS 7.1. After I installed the O2 UK version of OS 7.1 my Bold ran cooler, the battery life improved, and the experience was very stable. You can download it by following the link here: O2 UK version. For installation instructions, read post #47 of that thread.

Alternative installation procedures using BlackBerry Swiss Army Knife can be found here, here, and in post #3 of this thread at CrackBerry.

The Bold without BIS Guide

Bold 99xx Working and Dead Apps List

Certificates

Backing Up Apps and Creating Installers

Anatomy of a Service Book