Frequently Asked Questions

• 1. Which BlackBerry® devices are supported by BlackBerry World™ storefront?

  BlackBerry World is available for BlackBerry smartphones running BlackBerry® Device Software v4.5 or higher with a trackball, trackpad or touch screen, including BlackBerry 10 devices, and the BlackBerry PlayBook tablet

• 2. Where's BlackBerry World available?

  View a list of countries where BlackBerry World is available.

• 3. Which OS versions does BlackBerry World support?

  BlackBerry World works with BlackBerry smartphones running OS version 4.5.0 or higher, BlackBerry 10 and BlackBerry Tablet OS.

• 4. Applications - General
  a. What type of applications can I sell on BlackBerry World?

  At this time, any applications that can be packaged as a COD file (using the BlackBerry® Java® Development Environment (BlackBerry JDE), BlackBerry® JDE Plug-in for Eclipse®, BlackBerry JDE component package, BlackBerry® Theme Studio, BlackBerry® WebWorks Plug-in for Eclipse®, BlackBerry® WebWorks Plug-in for Microsoft® Visual Studio® or BlackBerry® WebWorks SDK).

  For BlackBerry PlayBook and BlackBerry 10, any applications that can be packaged as a BAR file (using the C\C++ Native SDK, HTML 5 WebWorks, ActionScript Adobe AIR and Java Android Runtime).

  Applications must comply with the BlackBerry World Vendor Guidelines and not violate any terms or conditions of the BlackBerry SDK License Agreement applicable to the applications. View the current version of the BlackBerry SDK License Agreement (PDF).

  b. Can I distribute web applications?

  Yes, it's possible to promote and distribute web-based content services for BlackBerry smartphones, provided you offer a web icon application to be distributed on BlackBerry World.

  A web icon application is a small Java® application packaged as a COD file that, once downloaded, provides a dedicated icon on the BlackBerry smartphone that will take the user to a mobile website. Learn how to create a web icon

  c. Can I distribute my web signals application?

  Yes, it's possible to promote and distribute web signals-based content services, provided you offer a web signal registration application to be distributed through BlackBerry World.

  A web signal registration application is a small Java application packaged as a cod file that, once downloaded, presents the user with the option to launch the web browser to your web signal registration page. Upon signing up to your web signal service, the web signal registration application can be removed by the end user. Learn how to create a web signal registration application

  d. Can I distribute themes?

  Yes, themes for BlackBerry OS smartphones can be distributed on BlackBerry World. Learn about developing rich wireless content for BlackBerry smartphones.

  e. Can I distribute BlackBerry WebWorks applications?

  Yes, BlackBerry WebWorks applications can be distributed on BlackBerry World. Learn about developing on the BlackBerry WebWorks Platform.

  f. My application requires a license key. How can I get a license key to the end user?

  BlackBerry World asks you to indicate an application requires a license key. The license key models supported include Static, Single, Pool or Dynamic.

  In the Static model, a license key isn't required to run the application. With the Single model, a single key is used to unlock the application.

  With the Pool model, you must send a pool of serial numbers that are handed out one at a time to each end user.

  With the Dynamic model, the BlackBerry World server will perform an HTTP connection to your company's website when it's time to generate a license key. Your website can generate a dynamic license key based on your pre-determined algorithm; for example, based on the user's email address.

  In all cases, the license key is provided to the user via the BlackBerry World client. Learn about dynamic licensing (PDF)

  g. An end user needs to download additional free desktop software or register with our free service before they can use an application. How do I inform them of additional requirements to use an application?

  Please specify the requirements in the description of the application posted during the application submission. You can also provide more information within your application through the help section.

  h. Can I distribute applications that use cryptographic APIs?

  You can distribute applications that use cryptographic APIs provided they adhere to the requirements and restrictions detailed in the BlackBerry World Vendor Agreement.

  You may also be required to provide a Commodity Classification Automated Tracking System (CCATS) reference for Research In Motion (RIM) to obtain additional data on the application and ensure compliance with export control regulations. Learn how to request an Export Control Classification Number (ECCN) (PDF)

  i. My company has applications with surrounding agreements that don't allow me to sell to certain carrier's customers. Can I decide which carrier networks my application is available for?

  During the application submission process, you can select which carrier networks you'd like to make an application available for. Only end users for the selected carrier(s) will be able to download the application.

  j. Do I need to be a member of the BlackBerry Alliance Program to submit applications on BlackBerry World?

  You don't need to be a BlackBerry Alliance Program member to distribute applications on BlackBerry World.

  k. How should I notify users of data charges associated with my application?

  In general, the application only needs to warn the user once-however, if the data charge is linked to a specific action (e.g. downloading a video), it would be preferable to warn the user before each action. The application can provide a warning with an option that says "do not warn me again". Please communicate any data charges within your application description as well.

  l. Can end users review or comment on the application?

  End users can submit review comments and rate applications with a star rating. The application rating system will include the following elements:

  • Users who have downloaded an application can rate the application from 0 to 5 stars.
  • Users who haven't downloaded an application aren't permitted to rate that application.
  • Users can only rate an application once.
  • An application's overall rating is based on the average rating submitted by users.

  Review comments are automatically scanned for inappropriate language when they're submitted and are subject to removal.

  m. Can I see the reviews and comments on my application? How can I flag a review if it's inappropriate?

  Vendors can view and flag rejected and accepted reviews through the Vendor Portal.

  n. Does my application require an EULA?

  It's recommended you include an EULA within your application. If an EULA is included, it must contain certain information as stipulated in the RIM Vendor Agreement and, if applicable, the Digital River Vendor Agreement.

• 5. BlackBerry World Vendor Portal
  a. I created a vendor account, but I cannot log into the vendor portal. I receive a message my account is disabled, what does this mean?

  Your vendor account is pending. Once you have created a vendor account through BlackBerry World Vendor Portal, you are required to provide valid documentation to verify your identity.

  If you are a company, supply official documentation to validate your company information (e.g. Articles of Incorporation, Business Licenses). If you are an individual, provide a copy (front and back) of an official government issued identification clearly showing your name and date of birth.

  Documentations can be returned to BlackBerry World team by email: blackberryappworldrequests@blackberry.com OR by fax: 1-519-883-7724

  Once you have submitted your documentation, please allow 24-48 hours for it to be processed. You will receive an email from BlackBerry World confirming your vendor account has been approved.

  b. I am a vendor and need help, is there an email?

  All vendor account related questions, including application requests and issues, email appworldvendorsupport@blackberry.com

  c. Is there a mailing list I can sign up to receive vendor updates?

  Being registered as a BlackBerry World Vendor you are automatically included in any notifications/updates.

  d. Who can submit applications through the BlackBerry World Vendor Portal?

  Most developers from around the world can submit applications for BlackBerry World.

  e. Where can I find a walk through on the application submission process?

  This video gives a great overview on the process of submitting an application to BlackBerry World:

  f. Where can I find a Vetting Criteria document when developing applications which are appropriate for submission to BlackBerry World?

  For additional information on developing applications which are appropriate for submission, please refer to the BlackBerry World™ Vetting Criteria.

  g. What do I need to provide when I submit an application for review?

  The BlackBerry World Vendor Portal provides you with flexibility for managing and offering your products on the BlackBerry World storefront. You should prepare the following forms and information before you log into the vendor portal to submit your app. Refer to the BlackBerry World Vendor Portal – Vendor Guide for detailed information.

  h. How are applications categorized?

  Categories can be selected during the application submission process. Vendors can select one category that applies to an application. Category selection will be evaluated for suitability and an alternate category may be suggested for your application.

  i. What are the requirements for icon, featured image and screenshots?

  When you add a product to BlackBerry World you must upload an icon for the product, and a feature image. These two images are the same for all product platforms. When you choose to upload screenshot images, you can use the same image for all platforms, or you can upload images specifically for each supported platform. Refer to Best practices for logos and other images for further information.

  j. Is it possible to add captions to the screenshots?

  It's not possible to add captions to the screenshots at this time.

  k. Can I add a hyperlink in the description of the application?

  You can add a link to the description to enable users to find more information about your application. Please note the description is in plain text and a user won't be able to click on the link.

  l. What is a Digital Rights form in BlackBerry World Vendor Portal?

  Any application that sources content from third-parties will be required to complete the Digital Rights form (for example, content is provided by XYZ Inc. or this application is powered by XYZ Inc).

  m. How do I complete the Digital Rights form and where can I locate it in the vendor portal?

  To complete the form, begin by logging into the vendor portal.

  • Select Manage Products
  • Within the table of apps, in the row of your application, select the option to view your release (magnifying glass icon)
  • Select the option to Edit (pencil icon)
  • Under the Confirm Digital Rights tab, select the My Product contains third party content checkbox.
  • Simply fill the three question boxes, then click Save.
  n. What is a User Generated Content Safeguards (UGCS) form in BlackBerry World Vendor Portal?

  Any applications that contain or facilitate user generated content (provides user with the ability to submit and share content with other users) will be required to complete the User Generated Content Safeguard form.

  o. How do I complete the UGCS form and where can I locate it in the vendor portal?

  To complete the form, begin by logging into the vendor portal.

  • Within Manage Products, select User Generated Safeguards tab, select the My product supports user generated content checkbox.
  • Fill the 5 question boxes (by copying relevant parts from the Terms of Service), then click Save. Please provide detailed answers for each question.
  p. What is an Export Control form in BlackBerry World Vendor Portal?

  Any applications that perform or contain encryption method (for example, https, SSL) will be required to complete the export control questionnaire.

  q. How do I complete the Export Control form and where can I locate it in the vendor portal?
  • Within Manage Products, select Export Control tab, select the My product includes the following encryption checkbox and select the encryption method that applies to your application.
  • Complete the questions, then click Save.
  r. What's the CCATS that confirms the classification of applications developed in the US?

  A CCATS is a formal document issued by the US Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, that provides an ECCN in accordance with the US Export Administration Regulations. Find out how to request an ECCN (PDF)

  s. Where can I find information on what OS versions are supported for each device?

  More than 96% of BlackBerry smartphones can be reached with BlackBerry Device Software v4.5 or higher. Refer to Supported Versions of BlackBerry Device Software to target the BlackBerry phone that suits your application.

  t. My application contains numerous COD files. How can I speed up the submission process?

  The vendor portal will accept a zip file containing the COD files for an application bundle. If your application has a separate set of COD files for different types of devices, each set of COD files will need to be zipped separately. You can upload the zip files during the application submission process. You can also use the ‘Batch Import’ function. More information on how to structure your ZIP file for Batch Import and the required configuration files can be found here.

  u. How do I get help with Code Signing Keys?

  Visit the Code Signing Support page for articles and other support resources for your Code Signing questions. If you're still having problems, all signing key issues can be directly sent to devsupport@blackberry.com

  v. Once an application has been submitted, can I make changes to my submission?

  Once your application has been submitted for review, only the meta-data (icons, screenshots, descriptions, etc.) can be changed directly within the Vendor Portal. You cannot modify or change the Release that has been uploaded for review. To request your Release be removed from the Review Queue to allow for modifications, email appworldvendorsupport@blackberry.com.

  w. Once my application has been approved, does it automatically get into the BlackBerry World catalog?

  Once your application(s) have been approved, they will automatically be posted ‘Up for Sale’. You can opt out of this automatic posting during the application submission process, but it must be done prior to submitting your application(s) for review . New applications can take up to 12-24 hours to appear on BlackBerry World's web store and device client.

  Ensure your application has the right selection for a device's OS, Country and Carrier restrictions in the vendor portal.

  Any changes submitted after your application has been published can take up to 12 hours for the changes to update on the store.

  If you cannot view or access your application on BlackBerry World, complete the BlackBerry World Vendor Support form.

  x. My company develops applications with multiple brands. Can I designate the brand an application belongs to?

  You'll need to register each brand as a separate vendor if you'd like to identify an application as belonging to one of those brands.

  y. How often will RIM provide reports on my application?

  You can generate a report daily, or as often as you'd like, by selecting the start and end date for which you'd like report data. The reports provide download and purchase information for all your applications. Detailed information regarding the Purchases of your application can be found in reports provided by Digital River and Bango.

  z. What sort of data is provided in the application purchase reports?

  The report contains the following information for each transaction with an end user. The data is provided as csv files:

  • Application name
  • Version
  • Date
  • Amount (if applicable)
  • Currency (if applicable)
  • License key (if applicable)
  • Device model
  • OS version
  • Carrier
  • Locale
  • Country

  Keep in mind all monthly revenue will be coming from either Digital River or Bango, and their reports should be used as the primary source to reconcile any monthly payments made.

  aa. What's the information flow between RIM and my company?

  RIM strives to provide open and clear communication to you throughout the vendor registration and application submission process. The information flows between RIM, Digital River and you are as follows:

  1. When you sign up as a vendor in the Vendor Portal, you're required to enter into the BlackBerry World Vendor Agreement.
  2. If you specify you're selling applications, you're also provided terms and conditions from Digital River.
  3. RIM will assess your registration information and approve or reject the registration. You'll be notified by email of the registration approval or rejection.
  4. Once approved, you can begin submitting applications to BlackBerry World:
     1. If you haven't entered into the Digital River Vendor Agreement, you can't submit paid applications. If you wish to submit paid applications, you'll be required to enter into the Digital River Vendor Agreement.
     2. RIM emails you immediately after an application submission has been made to confirm the submission.
  5. Your application information is provided to Digital River:
     1. Digital River establishes an account in their payment systems and sends you an email regarding the Digital River financial reporting systems. Please note this doesn't indicate approval of your application.
  6. You'll receive an email from RIM to indicate your application (for each application bundle) is approved or rejected after testing is complete.
  7. Once approved, you can post your application for sale in the vendor portal. The application will be visible on the client within 24 hours.
• 6. Purchasing, Billing and Invoicing
  a. What billing models are supported on BlackBerry World?

  BlackBerry World supports one-time billing at the time of download, free applications and the sale of digital goods within applications.

  Applications that require a different billing model, such as monthly subscription charges, feature unlocking and pay-per-use may leverage the Payment Service. Learn about Payment Service.

  b. How can I price my application?

  For paid applications, BlackBerry World will allow you to select a suggested retail price in US dollars for your application. The US dollar price is associated with a pricing tier. The pricing tier shows the application price for the currencies available, with the applicable exchange rate, in AUD, BRL, CAD, CHF, CLP, EUR, GBP, HKD, INR, JPY, KRW, MXN, MYR, NZD, PLN, SGD, THB, TRY, TWD, USD and ZAR. Pricing in GBP, EUR, CHF and PLN is inclusive of VAT.

  • Tiers increment by $1 USD from $0.99 to $19.99.
  • Tiers increment by $10 USD tiers from $19.99 to $99.99.
  • Tiers increment by $50 USD tiers from $99.99 to $599.99.
  • Tiers increment by $100 USD tiers from $599.99 to $999.99.

  Please note pricing tiers are subject to change.

  c. Does BlackBerry World have a pricing model?

  BlackBerry World pricing is collected via the pricing table. This is made up of multiple price tiers, which in turn is defined by a collection of country and carrier price points. A collection of price points for a specific country or carrier is referred to as a price map.

  

  Updates to the country suggested retail price maps are determined and implemented based on a variety of factors including the currency exchange rate, and local conditions. Price shown here are for example purposes only. Please check the vendor portal for actual price tables.

  d. What is a BlackBerry World carrier price map?

  For some carriers who support carrier billing, there is an additional carrier price map in the carrier's local currency which determines price points used for carrier billed transactions (through Bango). Credit Card and PayPal transactions on that carrier will continue to use the country price map.

  Updates to the Carrier suggested retail price maps are determined and implemented by working in coordination with Bango and Carrier partners.

  e. Can we send end users a message to renew or re-purchase an application?

  Users will be notified when updates to applications they've already downloaded or purchased are made available on BlackBerry World.

  f. Who is Digital River and what do they do?

  RIM has partnered with Digital River to act as a merchant and seller of record to provide vendors and end users with transaction processing, disbursement and reporting services.

  Digital River will accept PayPal® and credit card payments from end users and disburse the revenue to both RIM and the vendor. They will offer direct deposit to those vendors located in countries where PayPal is not supported.

  Digital River will also provide reports on the transactions, which are accessible to vendors through the Digital River financial reporting system.

  g. Who is Bango and what do they do?

  RIM has partnered with Bango to act as a merchant and seller of record to provide vendors and end users with transaction processing, disbursement and reporting services.

  Bango will facilitate carrier-billed payments from end users and disburse the revenue to both RIM and the vendor. Bango will also offer direct deposit to any vendor.

  h. How is the tax on purchased applications processed?

  Tax is calculated by Digital River and/or Bango and shown on an end user's purchase confirmation or may be included in the purchase price.

  i. How is the revenue divided between a developer and BlackBerry World?

  As of June 2011, the revenue split for applications sold via BlackBerry World is 70/30 in favour of the vendor.

  j. When will revenue disbursements be made?

  Carrier-billed payments are issued monthly where the vendor earnings exceed GBP £50/US $50/CAN $50/Euro €50. Earnings less than GBP £50/US $50/CAN $50/Euro €50 will be carried forward to the following month's payment run.

  PayPal and credit card payments are issued monthly where the vendor earnings exceed GBP £100/US $100/CAN $100/Euro €100. Earnings less than GBP £100/US $100/CAN $100/Euro €100 will be carried forward to the following month's payment run.

  k. Will application prices always be in USD or shown in local currency?

  Prices in the catalog will appear in the local or default currency, based on your home carrier.

  l. Will tax apply to the local country or always be shown in USD?

  Applicable taxes will be applied to the purchase price as determined by Digital River.

  m. Can I distribute free applications that generate post-download revenue?

  Free applications that generate revenue after download may be distributed on BlackBerry World. The BlackBerry World Vendor Agreement outlines the applicable terms and conditions.

  n. How do I get paid?

  1. PayPal

     • For users that purchased your app with PayPal:

       Payments come from Digital River and are deposited into your PayPal account on file (under Manage Account Details). Payments are made on a monthly basis, for the previous month's sales. Reports for each month's payments are available prior to the payment itself.

     • Example Payment schedule for April sales:

       May 10th: ePen report is available (this is handled/hosted by Digital River, not RIM).

       May 25th: Payment for all April sales is paid out.

       *Please note the dates above are approximate - may be a few days before or after.*

       Further questions regarding payments, or ePen report login credentials should be directed to Digital River.

  2. Credit Card

     For users that purchased your app with a credit card. Payments to vendors come the same way as if they had bought through PayPal.

  3. Carrier Billing

     Bango will be paying out to vendors every 60 days. Paid-outs will be at the end of the second month after the apps were purchased. This is to ensure carrier settlements have arrived at Bango, and because this settlement cycle widely varies between carriers, the Bango payments will be in 60-day intervals.

     Carrier billed payments are issued monthly where the vendor earnings exceed GBP £50 / US $50 / CAN $50 / Euro €50. Earnings less than GBP £50 / US $50 / CAN $50 / Euro €50 will be carried forward to the following month's payment run. This is also the minimum for PayPal and credit card payment to vendors.

     Further questions regarding Carrier Billing payments should be directed to Bango.

  o. How do I report any secondary revenue generated through my application?

  For reporting information, contact blackberryappworldrevenue@blackberry.com.

• 7. BlackBerry Commerce - Taxation Information Required in Vendor Portal
  a. Who is BlackBerry Commerce?

  BlackBerry Commerce is the Merchant of Record (MoR) for BlackBerry World transactions (BlackBerry World client of 4.0+ and BlackBerry 10).

  b. What is the BlackBerry Commerce Payment Service?

  BlackBerry Commerce Payment Service is the financial back-end of BlackBerry World.

  c. Why is BlackBerry Commerce Payment Service important to vendors?

  In the long term, BlackBerry Commerce Payment Service will allow RIM and Vendors to:

  • Expand the BlackBerry World catalogue
  • Provide RIM a direct commercial relationship with customers
  • Provide creative and dynamic pricing models
  d. How is BlackBerry Commerce Payment Service integrated in the devices? Which devices/OS will be supported?

  BlackBerry Commerce Payment Service will run on devices that have an upgraded World client of 4.0 or higher and BlackBerry 10.

  e. How is the rollout planned in general?

  BlackBerry Commerce Payment Service commenced in October 2012 with the rollout of BlackBerry World 4.0 and is available to all customers with OS 5.0+ devices.

  f. Are there any changes for the customer?

  The customer will agree to RIM's Purchase Terms Addendum as BlackBerry Commerce becomes the Merchant of Record.

  g. What payment methods will be supported by BlackBerry Commerce?

  Customers will be able to make purchases via their Credit Card and through PayPal.

  h. Will users be able to purchase applications via payment methods other than Credit Cards, PayPal Accounts and Carrier Billing?

  BlackBerry Commerce will continue to explore additional payment methods.

  i. Can I be paid via a different method other than PayPal (i.e. Direct Deposit)?

  In the event that PayPal is not available in your country, please contact customersupport@blackberrycommerce.rim.com

  j. Will reporting be made available to developers from BlackBerry Commerce and will it have the same characteristics that the current Vendor Portal is offering or will it be much more detailed for precise revenue, refunds, etc.?

  You will continue to have access to the Purchase report, plus a vendor statement on BlackBerry Commerce transactions will be emailed to you every month.

  k. How often will reports will be available (i.e. Weekly, Monthly, or running reports I can check daily to see revenue from the previous day?)

  The reports will be available on a monthly basis. However, vendors can check their Purchase Report (which contains sales, refunds and revenues) real-time through the Vendor Portal.

  l. Will I be paid monthly as I am today, or will that be changing? What (if any) is the new Payment Schedule?

  Payments will be made on a monthly basis.

  m. When paid, will I be paid directly to my PayPal account? Will I receive a detailed sales report?

  The payment will occur within 45 days after the end of each month and will happen directly to the vendor's PayPal account. The vendor will receive a monthly detailed sales statement and will also have the ability to check the sales progress daily through the BlackBerry World Vendor Portal.

  n. Will I be receiving all deposits from BlackBerry Commerce?

  Only for transactions with BlackBerry Commerce as the Merchant of Record. Digital River and Bango will continue to fund Vendors for those transactions that they are the Merchant of Record for.

  o. Will BlackBerry Commerce be charging sales tax?

  BlackBerry Commerce will be charging sales or indirect taxes, because this is an agency model where BlackBerry Commerce entities act as agents on behalf of the vendor.

  p. Other than US, Canada and EU will the rest of the country sales be charged with sales or indirect taxes directly by BlackBerry Payment Services?

  BlackBerry Commerce entities will act as agents and will charge sales taxes for US, Canada and EU.

  q. Where can I find more information relating to questions around taxation?

  More information regarding taxation can be found from the next question onwards or contact customersupport@blackberrycommerce.rim.com.

  r. What tax related information do I have to provide in BlackBerry World Vendor portal?
  • If you are registered for Canadian GST/HST, Provincial QST (Quebec Provincial Sales Tax), and/or VAT in any European country, you need to provide your registration number for each of these tax accounts.
  • US vendors need to provide a Form W-9 'Request for Identification Number and Certification'. W-9 form can be found at http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/fw9.pdf.
  • Non-US vendors selling into the US should consider providing a Form W-8. The W-8 can be found at http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/fw8ben.pdf.
  • Non Canadian vendors selling into Canada should consider providing a NR301 form (or another similar Canadian tax form if applicable). The NR301 form can be found at http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/E/pbg/tf/nr301/nr301-10e.pdf.
  s. Why do I have to provide indirect tax (i.e. sales tax) account registration numbers (Canadian GST/HST, Provincial QST and/or European VAT)?

  If you are registered for Canadian GST/HST, Canadian provincial QST or European VAT, you need to provide BlackBerry Commerce with your registration number for each of these tax accounts to ensure that tax calculations on transactions between you and BlackBerry Commerce are properly calculated and supported.

  t. What do I do if I do not have these indirect tax (i.e. sales tax) account numbers?

  If you are not registered for Canadian GST/HST, Provincial QST, and/or a European VAT number, then we do not require this information from you. We encourage you to consult with your own tax advisor to determine if you should be registered for these indirect taxes. If you register for any of these indirect tax accounts in the future, please return to the vendor portal to provide us with your registration number(s).

  u. What is the US W-8 tax form that you are asking me for and do I have to provide it?

  The US imposes a withholding tax of up to 30% on certain types of income that non-US vendors earn from US sources. If you are a non-US vendor selling into the US and US withholding tax could apply on BlackBerry Commerce payments to you, you could provide a W-8 form which may allow us to reduce or eliminate this US withholding tax, if applicable. If you are a non-US vendor selling into the US and you want to determine if US withholding tax could apply on BlackBerry Commerce payments to you, please consult question z. below for more information.

  v. What do I do if I don't know how to complete the US W-8 tax form?

  The most common version of the US W-8 is the W8-BEN form (Certificate of Foreign Status of Beneficial Owner for United States Tax Withholding). This form, its instructions, and other versions of W8 forms are available here.

  If you have further questions after reviewing the form and its instructions, please consult with your tax advisor.

  w. What is the Canadian NR301/302/303 tax form that you are asking me for and do I have to provide it?

  Canada imposes a withholding tax of up to 25% on certain types of income that non-Canadian vendors earn from Canadian sources. If you are a non-Canadian vendor selling into Canada and Canadian withholding tax could apply on BlackBerry Commerce payments to you, you could provide a NR301 tax form (or another similar Canadian tax form) which may allow us to reduce or eliminate this Canadian withholding tax, if applicable. If you are a non-Canadian vendor selling into Canada and you want to determine if Canadian withholding tax could apply on BlackBerry Commerce payments to you, please consult question z. below for more information.

  x. What do I do if I don't know how to complete the Canadian NR 301/302/303 tax form?

  The most common version of this form is the NR 301 form (Declaration of Eligibility for Benefits Under a Tax Treaty for a Non-Resident Taxpayer). This form and its instructions are available here.

  If you have further questions after reviewing the form and its instructions, please consult with your tax advisor.

  y. Will I still be paid if I do not provide sales tax account numbers and tax forms?

  Yes. If US withholding tax is applicable on your sales into the US and you have not provided a properly completed W8 form, it will be withheld at the highest rate (currently 30%). If Canadian withholding tax is applicable on your sales into Canada and you have not provided a properly completed NR301 or other similar form, it will be withheld at the highest rate (currently 25%).

  z. I am being asked to classify my new and/or existing paid products for Canada as:
  • sale or
  • royalty and

  for the US as:

  • sale,
  • rental or
  • service

  
  

  Why am I being asked for this classification and how do I decide which classification to select?

  
  

  You are being asked for this classification so that BlackBerry Commerce can properly determine if Canadian or U.S. withholding taxes are applicable on payments to you.

  aa. Why do I need to provide my Legal Status?

  The Vendor Legal Status is required for reporting and compliance purposes. In order to issue you a tax slip at the end of the year, the Legal Status will be required.

  bb. Who do I contact if I have further questions on this topic?

  Please contact customersupport@blackberrycommerce.rim.com.

  cc. How can I change my payment and tax details??

  Payment and Tax information can be changed in the BlackBerryWorld Vendor Portal under the Manage Account Details > Payment Info tab.

  dd. How can I update my mailing information on the Vendor Portal?

  You can update your mailing information through the BlackBerry World Vendor Portal under Manage Account details.

  ee. Who will help me with technical questions?

  Please contact appworldvendorsupport@blackberry.com with any technical questions or contact us through the BlackBerry World Vendor Support Form.

  ff. I cannot find an answer for my payment questions on the Vendor FAQ documentation. Where can I direct any questions that I have?

  Any payment questions will be answered by emailing customersupport@blackberrycommerce.rim.com.

  gg. Has the refund policy changed with BlackBerry Commerce?

  The BlackBerry Commerce Refund Policy can be found at http://worldwide.blackberry.com/legal/rime-store-refunds-policy.jsp.

• 8. PayPal
  a. What type of PayPal account should be used?

  Vendors can choose any type of account, including Personal, Premier or Business. The PayPal accounts don't need to be verified.

  Vendors will be paid in USD and all exchange fees will be incurred by the vendor. A USD or multicurrency account is suggested to manage against any foreign exchange or other cross border fees that may otherwise be applied.

  b. Can I receive payment into different vendor accounts based on geography?

  You can create multiple vendor accounts based on the different regions in which you operate. You can associate each vendor account with a different PayPal account and currency for disbursement.

  Payments to you will be made in USD. A USD or multicurrency account is suggested to manage against any foreign exchange or other cross border fees that may otherwise be applied.

  c. Is PayPal the only purchase mechanism for end users?

  No, end users can use credit cards and carrier billing in addition to their PayPal account to purchase applications from BlackBerry World.

  d. Does a user require a PayPal account to download free applications?

  End users don't require PayPal accounts to download free applications.

• 9. Localization
  a. What languages does BlackBerry World support?

  The BlackBerry World client supports English, French, Italian, German, Spanish, Brazilian Portuguese, and Japanese. Additional languages will be added in future releases.

  b. Can I sell non-English applications on BlackBerry World?

  Yes, you can sell non-English applications on BlackBerry World. Once you specify the languages supported by your application, you'll be required to provide application descriptions and application releases (file bundles and/or COD files) that support those languages. To provide a consistent experience to end users, all content on BlackBerry World must be in English. Learn about localizing BlackBerry device applications

• 10. Support
  a. How do I provide support to end users? Can they call my organization directly?

  A support email address must be included during your application submission process. You can also indicate a website users can visit for support. End users will be provided with your support email contact to receive support for application-related issues.

  RIM also recommends vendors provide support information within the help section of their application.

  b. Can end users request a refund after they purchase an application?

  You can request a refund by completing the BlackBerry Commerce Refund form. App Refund related matters are handled by BlackBerry Customer Care.

  View the Digital River refund policy applicable for BlackBerry World for sales to US customers or view the Digital River refund policy applicable for BlackBerry World for sales to international customers.

  c. Is there a BlackBerry forum for end users and vendors?

  BlackBerry World boards for vendors and end users are active on the BlackBerry forums. View the BlackBerry World forums.

• 11. BlackBerry World Co-marketing
  a. Does RIM provide any BlackBerry World co-marketing collateral for BlackBerry World vendors?

  Yes. As a BlackBerry World vendor, you may leverage the Get it at BlackBerry World logo.

  b. Where can I find the Get it at BlackBerry World logo?

  You can find the logos here.

  c. How may I use the Get it at BlackBerry World logo?

  Please reference the BlackBerry World Logo Guidelines (PDF)

  d. Can I embed a hyperlink to the Get it at BlackBerry World logo?

  Yes. The hyperlink must direct users to your application page on BlackBerry World. All URLs must be in the following format: http://appworld.blackberry.com/webstore/content/XXXX (XXXX = your application ID).

  You can find the URL for your application by browsing to your application page on the web store and copying the URL in the browser address bar.

• 12. Featured Applications
  a. Can I nominate my application to be featured in the Featured Items section on BlackBerry World?

  Yes. To nominate your application, you must send an email to blackberryappworldmarketing@blackberry.com with the following information

  1. Vendor name
  2. Application name
  3. Target region for application content (ex. Global, North America, Canada etc.)
  4. Feature Image (attached to email)
  5. Short Description (attached to email)
  b. What are the requirements for the Feature Image?

  The Feature Image must meet the following specifications:

  1. Dimensions: 1920 x 1186 pixels
  2. Bit Depth: 24-bit RGB
  3. File Format: PNG
  4. Edges not rounded off
  c. What are the requirements for the Short Description?

  The Short Description must meet the following specifications:

  1. Length: under 50 characters
  2. File Format: TXT
  3. Translations: you must provide an English Short Description. In addition to English, you must provide a translation of the Short Description for each of the languages supported by your nominated application
  d. What factors are taken into consideration when selecting feature applications?

  The following items are considered when selecting feature applications:

  1. Vendor account must be in good standing
  2. Application must be Up for Sale
  3. Positive user reviews and application rating (3+ star rating)
  4. Vendor participation on BlackBerry World (number of applications in BlackBerry World, forum participation etc.)
  5. End-user context (regional events, holidays etc.)
  6. BlackBerry World co-marketing (use of the Get it at BlackBerry World logo)
  e. When will I know if my application will be featured?

  In the event your application is selected to be featured, you'll be contacted (via email provided in nomination) 1-4 weeks prior to feature placement.

• 13. Personal Storage Locker
  a. What's the My World folder in BlackBerry World?

  The My World folder is an online record of the applications an end user has purchased or downloaded for free through BlackBerry World. Users can:

  • Uninstall and reinstall applications
  • Archive and restore applications to internal memory or a microSD card
  • Add a review for an application
  • Recommend an application to their friends

  When updates are available to applications that have been installed, the user will be notified and can view the update details.

  b. How many applications can a user store?

  An unlimited number of applications can be stored in BlackBerry World.

  c. Does My World allow the user to re-download paid-for applications?

  Yes. There are no restrictions on how many times users can install or download their applications to the BlackBerry smartphone on which they were purchased.

  If a user switches from one BlackBerry smartphone to a new BlackBerry smartphone, they can log in to BlackBerry World on their new BlackBerry smartphone and download their paid applications from the My World folder.

  d. If a user accidently deletes an application, do they have to purchase the application again?

  No. If a user purchases and downloads an application, they'll have the ability to download it without having to pay for it again. Users can access their applications from the My World folder in BlackBerry World.

  e. How many times can a user re-download paid applications from My World to a different device?

  If a user needs to switch from a BlackBerry smartphone to a new BlackBerry smartphone, they can log in to My World on the new BlackBerry smartphone and re-download their paid applications.

  f. What happens if the paid application stored in My World is incompatible with a user's new BlackBerry smartphone?

  If a purchased application is incompatible with a new model, the user would be notified from within the My World folder. To continue using the application, the user would need to purchase a new version of the application, if available.

  g. Where do applications go when users install them?

  Any application installed on the BlackBerry smartphone (from BlackBerry World or anywhere else) is installed in flash memory. Each BlackBerry smartphone has a different amount of flash memory and this is what determines how many applications each device can have installed. With the archiving feature, applications can be stored on the microSD card and restored when a user wants to use them.

  h. How are dynamic licenses handled during a device switch?

  When a user re-connects to My World on a new smartphone, all the dynamic serial numbers are automatically regenerated and the new serial numbers are sent to the device.

• 14. Can I make a complaint that an app on the BlackBerry World™ storefront is infringing my intellectual property?

  RIM respects intellectual property. We expect others to do the same. If you believe that your copyright or trademark rights are being infringed by third-party content on the BlackBerry World storefront, please see 'How to Report Copyright and Trademark Violations on BlackBerry World' In responding to your complaint, RIM may remove the third-party content. RIM may also, in circumstances it determines appropriate, terminate its relationship, including any relevant accounts, with the third-party content owner. In other cases, a complaint may be found to be materially incomplete or inadequate and may not be processed.

  To learn more about the BlackBerry World application submission process, visit the BlackBerry World Vendor Support site