Research in Motion Recalls 1,000 BlackBerry PlayBooks (RIMM)

BlackBerry-maker Research in Motion RIMM determined Sunday that approximately 1,000 PlayBook tablets (16 GB) were shipped with an operating system build that "may result in the devices being unable to properly load software upon initial set-up." In a statement to Crackberry.com, RIM noted that "The majority of the affected devices are still in the distribution channel and haven't reached customers. RIM is working to replace the affected devices." Customers who receive a defective unit can contact RIM for assistance. Even though the number of affected units is small, the news is unwelcome in RIM headquarters. The PlayBook's release has been less than spectacular, with poor reviews and difficult competition. According to a Reuters report, "In April, RIM cut its first-quarter earnings outlook citing fewer BlackBerry smartphone shipments in the period." Research In Motion Limited is a designer, manufacturer and marketer of wireless solutions for the worldwide mobile communications market. Shares closed lower by $0.55 on Friday, or 1.25%, to $43.24.