BlackBerry users often complain that their devices need a faster browser and better touchscreen technology. That's what they are going to get in the third quarter when Research In Motion plans to launch its new 6.0 operating system, according to the company.

RIM, whose low-key public relations style is the polar opposite of Apple's iPhone hype, still hasn't made a formal announcement about the new OS, but RIM co-chief executive Mike Lazaridis showed a brief video about it at the company's annual Wireless Enterprise Symposium in Florida. Lazaridis said the new OS represents one of RIM's biggest upgrades in years.

Stock analysts at the meeting were favorably impressed and gave a round of spontaneous applause when they were shown the video, according to reports.

Particularly good news for BlackBerry users is Lazaridis' comment that the firm is working to ensure that the new OS will accommodate existing BlackBerrys. "We are going to try and do our best to allow people to upgrade to 6.0," he said.

RIM's other co-chief executive, Jim Balsillie, said that more powerful phone cameras and easy-to-navigate displays will appear in BlackBerry models soon. "You are going to see very powerful extensions on our part," said Balsillie. "I don't think you have to be too patient either."

In recent months Apple's iPhone and Google's Android phones have stolen much of the publicity thunder from RIM, but the BlackBerry maker still leads in smartphone deliveries. A new OS with a fast browser along with an improved touchscreen would help the firm's image.

Earlier this week, RIM announced new phones for carriers and users on GSM and CDMA networks.

InformationWeek has published a report on virtualization management. Download the report here (registration required).