RIM will soon be releasing a version of the BlackBerry Desktop Manager software for the Mac platform, although a version has already surfaced on the web, which was used to create this post.

The installation procedure is quick and painless. If the PocketMac for BlackBerry software has already been installed you will be warned that installing this application will cause PocketMac to no longer function correctly. A reboot will be required:

Once installed an icon will be added to the Applications folder, and the software will also launch automatically when your BlackBerry device is connected via USB

When connecting your device for the first time you will be prompted to enter a name to identify it:

The main window will then be displayed:

The software enables bi-directional synchronisation with Address Book and iCal as well as Entourage

Music playlists can be synchronised from iTunes, provided that the device has a storage card inserted.

Applications can be installed and removed, and device software updates downloaded and installed:

Full and partial device backups can also be made and restored:

Modem Tethering

Provided that you have data service enabled on your SIM card (besides the BlackBerry service), you can use your BlackBerry as a USB modem with your Mac to connect to the Internet.
When connected to your Mac for the first time, you will be prompted to open System Preferences because a new network interface has been detected:

To configure Internet access, select the entry for the RIM Composite Device. Enter a telephone number of *99#
Enter the appropriate username and password for your service provider. Click on the Advanced button:

On the Modem tab, set the Vendor to Research In Motion, and the Model to BlackBerry IP Modem (GSM).
In the APN field enter the appropriate Access Point Name for your service provider:

Vodafone - internet
Orange - orangeinternet
O2 - mobile.o2.co.uk
T-Mobile - general.t-mobile.uk
Three - three.co.uk

Click OK and then Apply. To initiate the connection to the Internet click the Connect button.