If you like to experiment with your BlackBerry and test out early versions of apps, the BlackBerry Beta Zone is a good program to participate in. Not only will you get to use applications before they are released, but you also get to provide feedback and help shape the future of BlackBerry applications from RIM.
Once you create a login to the BlackBerry Beta Zone and create a profile, you will be asked a series of questions. RIM invites you to participate in beta programs based on the information provided in your profile, so that you get opportunities to try out applications that you are interested in and will use.
Once you choose to participate in one of the programs you are eligible for, you get to see how RIM determines when an application is ready to open up to the general population. Beta testers provide feedback, respond to surveys, and see a list of features that other testers have requested. You also have access to a list of the Known Issues, and can discuss the application in the Feedback forums.
By participating in the BlackBerry Beta Zone, you help RIM control the quality of applications they release. You also get the chance to voice your concerns about applications, and request features. By joining the voices of hundreds of other Beta Zone testers, you can influence the future development and feature sets for RIM applications.