Author Archives: Taylor Martin

Review: Verizon BlackBerry Curve 3G 9330

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I bought my very first BlackBerry Curve a little over four years ago, and I loved it. After making a jump up to the Tour, I have written off the “cheaper” feeling of the Curves and Pearls and decided I would stick with RIM’s higher-end devices from then on. Last week I received a Verizon BlackBerry Curve 3G, and my mind has somewhat changed. I’ve been carrying a Torch for about a month now, and I love it, but it isn’t perfect. One of my gripes is the size, weight, and the sliding hinge. One thing the Curve 3G brings to the table is a lightweight, slim feeling, and it doesn’t exactly feel all that cheap.

I have never been a fan of the 8500 series, at all. They were cheap, felt cheap, and had a lot of build quality issues like loose keyboards, wobbly trackpads, etc. I’m pleased to say, RIM has stepped up their game some with the 9300 series, and they actually feel like they were made with quality in mind. I wasn’t uber excited when I got the 9330, but it’s made me reconsider how much I actually like the Torch and made me want to go back to RIM’s standard front-facing QWERTY, wafer style device.

What’s good

I’ve always love the Curve style keyboards. The fret-style keyboards on the higher-end devices are great, but the letters are all smushed together. With the Curve, you have letter separation and a more “clicky” keyboard, which I’m fond of. With these keyboards, you get more feedback and I used to have a lot less typos when I was using one. Having the Curve 3G for a while made me miss my old keyboard from my 8330.

With the updated hardware, there is now ample on-board memory for applications and no need to pull your battery every couple days to free up unused memory. I didn’t really experience a whole lot of lag either while I was using the device, but that’s subject to change over time and prolonged use.

I love the build quality, size, and weight of the 9330. I was skeptical at first, seeing that the 8500 was a flop in the design sector. The 8500 and 9330 have the same body style and look almost identical, but the 9330 feels like it was made out of more dependable material. The back and sides of the 9330 are rubberized which gives you better grip on the phone and helps against bumps and drops. The dark chrome bezel gives the Curve 3G a much more luxurious look and feel, and I’m really digging the colors that they’re coming out in. It narrows the gap between the Curve and Bold series, and gives the Curve a little more professional look rather than toyish. I also love the texturized battery cover. Anyway, the Curve 3G is easily pocketed and barely noticeable in the pocket. My Torch is large and clunky. It was nice to have a barely noticeable device for a couple days to relieve me of my pocket weight.

What’s bad

As you would expect, the Curve only comes with 512MB of internal flash memory (storing pictures, videos, etc.), which is fine in combination with a memory card, but if you want to store music or videos on your 9330, you’re definitely going to need that extra storage space. My problem with this is that RIM obviously wants to direct their Curve series devices towards media players as well. They offer the multimedia buttons on the top edge of the device, but only give you 512MB of built-in storage? I know they’re trying to keep cost down on the devices, but flash memory isn’t exact the most expensive thing anymore.

I also don’t understand RIM’s mentality behind leaving the Curve 3G’s camera at 2.0MP. Even messaging phones have better cameras than your low-end BlackBerry devices, and that should be. The camera doesn’t even have a flash either. You would hope RIM would at least want to match 3.2MP considering their devices are going to require a data plan anyway (pictures taken with 3.0MP and greater will use data rather than picture messaging plans on most US carriers).

The 9330 on Verizon will ship with BlackBerry OS 5. The device is BlackBerry 6 ready, but in my personal opinion, the device should have launched with BlackBerry 6 to begin with. From my experience in wireless sales, over half of the people with a phone never hear about OS updates and remain frustrated with their device. Some may eventually get inquisitive and look it up, but it’s more likely than not that they will remain on 5.0. RIM is in a tough spot right now and can’t afford to be making decisions like this one.

The browser on the 9330 is just as horrifying as we’ve all grown accustomed to. BlackBerrys (right now) are not great tools for browsing the internet unless you’re in a bind and absolutely have to. Nothing has changed in this department on the 9330, but once BlackBerry 6 is released for it, it will sport the new, shiny WebKit browser. The new browser on BlackBerry 6 is somewhat better, but it isn’t exactly the greatest available. If you’re a first time buyer and looking for an internet browsing device, steer clear. This device can do it, but sometimes it’s more trouble than its worth.

The battery life on the 8500 series was less than desirable, and such is the same with the 9330. It isn’t horrible, but BlackBerry is known for its excellent battery life. I made it through a day with the 9330, but just barely. I have always been a heavy user, especially with being such a Twitter fiend, but I seemed to cripple the 9330′s battery pretty quickly. I didn’t have a whole lot of time with the device, and I’m not sure whether I just need to use some of my techniques to prolong the battery life, or if it really wasn’t that great in comparison to what I’ve grown used to with my Tour and 9700.

Conclusion

If RIM had bumped up the camera a notch, given it a flash, and given it BlackBerry 6 out-of-box, the 9330 would have been nearly perfect. Don’t get me wrong, I loved the device and would definitely recommend it to someone seeking a cheap smartphone on Verizon, but if you’re looking for a great experience out of a device rather than an okay experience, I would suggest the Bold 9650 or waiting patiently on a Storm 3. There is a huge gap between the higher-end devices and entry level BlackBerrys. Of the lower-end, the 9330 is the best I’ve seen yet and I expect it will be much better once BlackBerry 6 is released for it. If you already have an 8530 and you’re looking to upgrade, I say wait. Right now you’re not going to notice really any true difference beyond look and build quality. Once BlackBerry 6 is out for it, you will be entering a new world of BlackBerrys.

If you’re just coming to BlackBerry for the first time, the 9330 may be for you. It’s affordable, looks great, and does just what BlackBerrys to best, BBM and email. If you’re interested in getting a BlackBerry Curve 3G through Verizon, you can expect to pay $29.99 after a $100 mail-in rebate. For a full spec-sheet on the 9330, click here.

Who is going to buy a BlackBerry PlayBook?

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Here we are, the “BlackPad” is a thing of the past and the PlayBook is now a reality. RIM has wowed us for the first time in a long time, and the PlayBook is on its way to a store near you in the coming months. I personally have an iPad, plan on getting a Galaxy Tab, and I know I will get a PlayBook. In comparison, the PlayBook packs some serious heat and should instill some fear in the competitors’ eyes.

What do you guys plan on getting? Who plans on getting a PlayBook? Take the poll below, and bark it up on RIM’s latest endeavor in the comments below!


Like BBerryDog on Facebook!

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Hello pups! I know we’re late to the game, but BBerryDog is now on Facebook. If you’re a fan you should like us on Facebook and suggest us to your BlackBerry lovin’ friends! You can find us here. Be sure to spread the word with all of your friends, and find the other PhoneDog network sites on Facebook!

Also, don’t forget to like the PhoneDog Facebook page for your chance to win an Apple iPad!

“Like” PhoneDog on Facebook and win an iPad!

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We, here at BBerryDog, are glad to announce the beginning of the parent of our network’s parent site, PhoneDog’s, giveaways. Starting today at 5:00 PM PT, you can enter the PhoneDog iPad giveaway. All you have to do is simply “like” the PhoneDog.com Facebook page. The contest will run until Monday, Oct. 4 at 4:00 PM PT when Noah will be doing a live broadcast via Ustream on the PhoneDog Facebook page, which can be viewed here at the stated time. Noah will refresh the Facebook page and select the person displayed in the first position on the “People Like This” box. The selected user will be the winner of an Apple iPad, so don’t waste time, get to likin’ and hope you’re in position #1 when the time comes!

Like I said, this is the first of many PhoneDog Facebook live giveaways, so stay tuned for more sweet deals and devices!

TechnoBuffalo shows off the yet to be announced BlackBerry Bold 9780

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It’s been a week for rumors, leaks, and all sorts of BlackBerry news. There was a long drought after the Torch launched, but it seems the tech Gods have once again graced us with their presence. The guys over at TechnoBuffalo have got their hands on an unbranded BlackBerry Bold 9780 and have provided us all with a nice video walkthrough of the device. Now, there’s nothing that we haven’t seen before in the 9780 minus a non-touchscreen with BlackBerry 6. It is essentially a updated version of the 9700 we have all grown to love. Here are the specs of the 9780:

  • 624 MHz Processor
  • BlackBerry 6
  • 512 MB of RAM
  • 2.44″ HVGA+ display (480 X 360)
  • 5 MP camera with auto-focus and LED flash
  • Bluetooth 2.1
  • Webkit browser
  • AT&T 3G Bands

The TB guys had good things to say about the upcoming Bold refresh, and I would love to get my hands on one as well. What say you guys? Will you buy the 9780, or will you wait to see what comes of the rumors floating around about the 9700 getting BlackBerry 6? For more pictures and a video of the 9780, hit the source link.

via: TechnoBuffalo

Review: BlackBerry Wireless Headset HS-700

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I’ve never been a huge believer in Bluetooth headsets, but I’ve recently been converted. Upon receiving the BlackBerry Wireless Headset HS-700 I was skeptical about how to go about a review and not being too harsh. It isn’t easy reviewing something that you’ve already got your mind made up about. Regardless, I broke open the packaging and lo and behold, my concept of Bluetooth headsets changed. I’ve had a few in my day, mostly for playing video games online, but a few months back I purchased a Plantronics Voyager Pro. While it was a nice headset, I never should have bought it. The long boom made me feel like an idiot out in public, and I would rather not use it outside of the house.

The HS-700 is different though. It’s sleek, slim, and barely noticeable to the wearer. Of course, I would still look funny wearing it in public (everyone does) and feel weird talking on it anywhere besides the comfort of my home or car. The difference though is the quality of it. Bluetooth headset manufacturers have made leaps and bounds in design over the past two years.

After getting through all of the packaging and finding the right earpiece to fit my funny shaped ears, I proceeded to pair it with my Torch. Pairing was painless, as it typically is these days. I turned on the headset and it went straight into pairing mode. If you’re unfamiliar with the pairing process, no fear, the headset speaks instructions to you and walks you through the entire setup process. Once paired, you should have the ability to answer calls, use your voice commands, and listen to podcasts, music, etc. through your headset. Up to this point, there was no real surprise, but I was still impressed with how easy everything has been made for someone who may not deal with Bluetooth a lot, or is unfamiliar with it. The next thing on the agenda was testing call quality, which turned out to be surprisingly great. I had no problem hearing the person on the other line, and they had no problem hearing me. I have since bought a Jawbone ICON and have had slight issues with people hearing me, but I’ll go ahead and claim that user error.

Simply put, the HS-700 works and it works well. Setup is easy as it talks you through everything and helps you straight out of the packaging. The help doesn’t end after the setup process, the headset will talk to you every time you turn it on. To some, this may be annoying, but I rather enjoy it. Before, Bluetooth had three functions, on, off, and pair. Now you have menus and other features built-in that extend what can be accomplished simply by talking to a tiny, battery-powered device that perches in your ear. To enter the voice commands, press the button on the outside rim of the headset. If you ever need help on a voice command menu, just say, “What can I say?” and it will give you all of the voice commands for whatever menu or submenu you are in. I found the voice commands very nice and simple to navigate and came in handy seeing as the headset has features that extend beyond the two-button hardware. Probably my favorite feature of the HS-700 comes with the AD2P capability (stereo Bluetooth, meaning you can listen to music via your headset), which is a voice command. Simply press the voice command button and say, “Play.” If you have a song that has been paused, it will simply resume. Unfortunately, if not, you will have to start up the music manually via the BlackBerry device. I was hoping that the voice commands would allow you to shuffle all or something like that if music wasn’t already playing, but no bother, it’s a cool feature nonetheless.

Probably my favroite thing about the HS-700 is how it turns on. Most Bluetooth headset are turned on by long pressing the talk button. When this is the case, sometimes you aren’t sure if you’re turning it on or off, or if you’re putting it in pairing mode. After dealing with Bluetooth devices for a long time, I’ve learned otherwise and learned the color-coded, morse code-like language from Bluetooth devices. The HS-700 is turned on by rotating the earpiece around. I really like this, it’s unobtrusive and just simply works without confusing you. The problem is, sometimes I’ve seemed to rotate the rubber fitting and find myself having to adjust that almost every time I put the device in my ear. Even still, I love the way this headset it turned on.

The downside to the HS-700 is it’s lack of features. In comparison to other devices in its price range, it has a lot of extended features with its voice commands, but some other devices offer more features and extended capabilities. With the HS-700 you can just talk to your headset, tell it to answer or ignore a call, etc. It can speak directions from a navigation application to you, or play your music. Now let’s look at the Jawbone ICON. With the ICON, I have extra easter eggs for using it with a BlackBerry. I can install an application on my BlackBerry that shows me the battery life remaining on my device. It also did not come out of the box with AD2P (stereo Bluetooth I was talking about earlier), so I couldn’t listen to music on it. This is one of the main reasons I wanted another Bluetooth, listening to Podcasts and possibly music was a nice selling feature. Since the ICON didn’t come with it out of box, I went to the website and learned that you can update the software on the ICON, change the voice that talks to you, and install applications that let you compose messages straight from the headset. All of this comes for $99.99 versus the $129.99 for the HS-700. Both are undoubtedly high-end Bluetooth devices with more capability than I would ever need out of that technology at the moment, but for the price, you’re not quite getting the same bang for your buck with the HS-700.

Maybe RIM can learn from Jawbone’s support for BlackBerry devices and really propel their own Bluetooth devices beyond the competition and offer something really cool and futuristic. Overall, the HS-700 is one awesome little Bluetooth. Personally, I love it. I give it 8 out of 10 stars. It’s sleek and slim, has amazing build quality, and just plain works really well. It’s much easier to figure out than most others, and offers great noise cancellation and excellent mic quality. If you’re looking into buying a Bluetooth to accompany your BlackBerry, definitely give the HS-700 a look over. Like I said, it doesn’t quite stack up to the Jawbone ICON with the applications and such, but it holds it own for someone who isn’t looking for applications and software updates on a device that is supposed to be plain and simple. The HS-700 works like it is supposed to straight out of the box, and I’ve yet to have a single problem out of mine.

For more information on the HS-700, you can visit the site, here. You can purchase your very own HS-700 at your local Best Buy or ShopBlackBerry.

SocialScope is delivering more invites later this week!

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SocialScope

The ever-so-elusive, all-in-one, BlackBerry social inbox, SocialScope, has finally said they plan to send out more invites to their private beta later this week. People have been clamoring about SocialScope invites since the app was initially released in late 2008. It has been in private beta ever since and slowly growing hype. People are always @ replying SocialScope on Twitter begging and pleading for an invite, offering up their limbs and first-born. I’ve had SocialScope since early 2009 and it’s the only client I’ve used on BlackBerry since. Every update launches them leaps and bounds ahead of Twitter for BlackBerry, UberTwitter, and the other competition out there, and they’re about to make the jump cross-platform onto Android and iPhone.

If you’re interested in getting SocialScope, you have to sign up for the private beta, here. Let me tell you know, you are signing up for a private beta and are just now adding yourself to the end of a very long list. Let’s just hope the SocialScope team sends out a lot of invites this time. Before, when they said they would send out invites, it didn’t appear as if they had sent out too many, but there’s no way for us to really know. Sit tight and we will all see as the week is already drawing to an end!

socialscope

The new SocialScope update adds:

  • Full Facebook Experience – We’ve upped our Facebook experience 1000x with Facebook Friends list, Facebook pages, Full Facebook Profiles, Private Messages and Notifications.  SocialScope is the best way to use Facebook on your BlackBerry.
  • Inbox Integration – Powerful inbox integration allows you to select exactly which messages appear in your BlackBerry inbox.
  • Mute – Tired of hearing from a user, application(farmville!) or topic? Now you can block those updates.
  • Reduced Battery Usage – We’ve tuned, tweaked and optimized SocialScope to dramatically reduced battery usage. The most powerful social networking app now also the most power efficient.
  • Interface Tweaks – SocialScope is faster and easier to use.  We’ve made interface tweaks through out the app based on your feedback.
  • Invites (coming later this week!) – You’ve been asking for a way to share SocialScope with your friends and we’ll be delivering that later this week.
  • Lots of Bug Fixes – We went bug hunting and fixed many issues including url shirking, removing Twitter accounts and location lookup.
    These are only the first set of changes!  We’ve been hard at work to enable a whole new set of experiences with Socialscope.  Keep an eye out for them in the coming wee    ks.

Who already has the update? How do you like it? How does it fair against older versions or other clients? Bark it up pups!

via: BBSync

BBerryDog is looking for more editors!

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WritersWanted

It’s that time again folks. We here at BBerryDog have become up to our necks and we need your help! As you can see, it’s been a little quiet here at BBerryDog lately, and we sincerely apologize. To avoid this happening again in the future, we’re looking to bring on a few more writers to our team. The positions currently available are for our news team, and could possibly lead to other positions with proven hard work and dedication.

Here are the things that you need to know:

  • We want individuals who can offer engaging, thoughtful content.
  • You must be well-versed in how to utilize periods, commas, and how to spell correctly.  Needless to say, that kind of stuff is essential.
  • You must be reliable, responsible, and trustworthy.  The position will require regular research and fact checking, and we’ll be checking your work from time to time as well.  Plagiarism is not acceptable.
  • Previous writing/blogging experience is highly desired, but not required.
  • A great attitude is essential for the position.

Note: This is not a paid gig at this time, but an opportunity for people who want to break into the online journalism field and/or have a passion for the wireless industry.

(This is where I started with BBerryDog, now I’m the Managing Editor. The positions have great potential to grow.)

Here’s what you need to include in your e-mail:

  • Submit two posts in the BBerryDog writing style.  We’re not going to publish them to the website, but we want to get an idea of your writing style and “voice” (i.e. how well you can do this whole tech thing).
  • List your top three favorite gadgets/phones (not included in your sample posts), and why you enjoy them.
  • Tell us how much time per week you can commit to writing for the website – what days, time blocks, etc. (We have a minimum requirement and will discuss this if you “make the cut.”)
  • Send us any questions that you may have about the position.
  • Tell us where you’re located.
  • Tell us your age (note: must be 13 or older for consideration).
  • Include your contact information and the best time/way to reach you.

A few additional details:

  • DO NOT send attachments.  If you do, we will ignore the e-mail.
  • Check your work prior to sending it.  If u type like thes, your work isn’t going to be considered.
  • Don’t send writing from other websites that you’ve worked with in the past.
  • BBerryDog is written in English – please make sure your e-mail is too.
  • Due to the large volume of e-mails that we receive, we won’t be responding to everyone.  If we’re interested, we’ll get in touch.  If you don’t hear back, it doesn’t mean that you’re a bad writer – we’re just looking for different writing styles.

To submit your work, email taylor@bberrydog.com. Good luck to you all!

Images of Hootsuite for BlackBerry beta leaked, looking good

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bb-screenshots-release

It’s been a long time coming. There was once a rush by many developers to produce the best Twitter client and get it out to the public as fast as possible. Along came some heavy hitters like UberTwitter, Seesmic, and even RIM gave it a swing with Twitter for BlackBerry, but there were some far superior teams working on clients that give you more than just Twitter at your fingertips, they gave you Foursquare, Facebook, and more. SocialScope, the elusive BlackBerry private beta application is one of those, and Hootsuite is the other. Now SocialScope is becoming more and more available and spreading out to other platforms, and Hootsuite is in private beta. Few are lucky enough to have a taste of the Hootsuite beta, but I am hearing good things about it. Only to rub that in our faces, Hootsuite themselves have given us a peek at what the application looks like, and I am fully impressed. They kept it clean and simple, unlike many others, and it looks like they could be bringing the heat to the SocialScope team. I’m glad to see there’s still room for competition in the Twitter client world. It seemed almost as if everything had leveled out for good, but the SocialScope starts updating and you see features you never thought of. Eventually, TweetDeck for BlackBerry will also release, let’s just hope their BlackBerry app launch doesn’t go quite like it did for Android.

If you have your hands on the Hootsuite beta, let us know how you like it. Share some screenshots, give us the good, the bad, and the ugly.

via: RIMarkable

Source: Hootsuite

Video: BlackBerry Bold 9650 running BlackBerry 6…again

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9650BB6

LoiuV over at BBLeaks is at it again, and so is ol’ Salomondrin. This time it’s the BlackBerry Bold 9650 running the famed BlackBerry 6 on video. I’ve been curious about how BlackBerry 6 would run on a non-touchscreen device, and I guess this answers my question. To me, it doesn’t seem (and I know it isn’t) as functional, but it is usable. For me, touchscreens have won me over and I believe I would rather have BlackBerry 6 in a flavor with nothing but a touchscreen, if RIM decides to make one without SurePress. If you’re having the same doubts as me, be sure to catch the video below.

After you catch the video, tell us your thoughts in the comments. How does the non-touch version of BlackBerry 6 stack up to the Torch’s version? Would you prefer touchscreen to non?

via: BBLeaks

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Amazon offers a great deal on the BlackBerry Torch, $99.99

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Torch

Four (now five) days after the original launch day of the AT&T BlackBerry Torch, Amazon does what it’s known for and offer great prices. While still $199.99 with a two-year contract in AT&T stores across the nation, Amazon is selling the Torch for a mere $99.99 with a two-year contract. Now, some have claimed that the low price is due to the unimpressive sales of the Torch. Nobody expected an iPhone-like launch with millions of phones sold on launch day. Nobody lined up to get their BlackBerry Torch, and we didn’t expect them to either. But that doesn’t constitute a price cut, and that isn’t what has happened here, contrary to what many others have been saying.

Amazon simply sells phones lower than carrier stores, they always have. Most online suppliers do, too. When you buy a phone from a supplier like Amazon, there are two agreements in effect, and many people are unaware of that. You’re agreeing to the carrier’s terms and conditions, as well as Amazon’s which are as follows:

When you purchase your device with service from Amazon.com, we automatically pass along an instant discount from the carrier to you. This discount has been provided to you based on your agreement to (a) activate a new, or extend an existing, line of service for this device with the carrier, and (b) maintain this service in good standing for a minimum of 181 consecutive days. If you do not activate or extend a line of service in connection with this device, or if your service is canceled/disconnected before 181 consecutive days, Amazon.com will charge you $250 per device, plus applicable taxes.

The Torch has been given mixed reviews here and there and not everyone is a huge fan of the sliding design. It is, however, running RIM’s new BlackBerry 6, which a lot of people are seeming to love. It isn’t what I want from RIM, I want more, but this is a good step in the right direction. I feel that once RIM gets BlackBerry 6 loaded on a full touchscreen device, things will go a little more smoothly for them. They really botched the marketing for BlackBerry 6 and the Torch to people that don’t follow BlackBerry news by not releasing word of the device until a week before its release. So I expected pretty low sales, but RIM has proven that they are not yet a dying breed.

Is this low price due to low sales? No. It’s Amazon, who has done the same with phones like the Samsung Captivate, which is still $200 with a two-year contract in AT&T stores, but $49.99 on Amazon with the same two-year contract. Take of it what you will, but this is nothing out of the ordinary.

via: MobileCrunch

Facebook for BlackBerry version 1.8 headed our way in the not-too-distant future?

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facebook_logo

When it comes to BlackBerrys, one thing is for sure, most users are huge Facebook/Twitter addicts. RIM has finally released their long awaited, beautiful BlackBerry 6 and without a doubt need to overhaul their accompanying Facebook application to go along with it.

In my opinion, RIM does Facebook better than anyone else. With push email that translates into push notifications for their Facebook app, it’s hard to top them. The Facebook experience on an iPhone or Android is far below Facebook on my BlackBerry, but RIM could do much better with it. There is no official changelog between 1.6 and 1.8, but most people are sitting, waiting patiently for Facebook Chat in some future release. Let’s hope RIM has been listening.

RIMarkable is claiming that we could see it as soon as later today, but don’t get your hopes up. They claimed the “chatter” about the release of version 1.8 is increasing, but that doesn’t mean a whole lot to this guy. We’re all on version 1.6 right now, but I can recall quite well how that release and the release of version 1.5 were. RIM claiming it was coming on one day only to have that date delayed a few times and when they finally did release it, App World and the download links supplied on the mobile BlackBerry website were simultaneously bombarded by millions of people all at once. Don’t get your panties in a twist if they release it today and you can’t download it until tomorrow, RIM is notorious for building hype and making their servers crash. It’s bound to happen when you have

via: RIMarkable

US Weekly offers celebrity news via BBM, nice concept

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USWeekly

I’ve never been one to give a rusty, dog fart about any celebrity or what they do in their spare time, but I know plenty of people who do and would love to follow a celebrity around for a living picking up the crumbs of food they drop when they eat, trash they throw away, etc. For those people, US Weekly has provided, in a way, for you do so all through BBM. I thought a long time ago that it would be a good idea for say, a local news station, a national news provider, or even worldwide news provider would offer news through BlackBerry Messenger. It’s instant  and can provide content to thousands of people, quickly, who will more than likely turn right around and regurgitate it on Twitter or Facebook. It’s an obvious way to spread news fast, but there is a drawback. CrackBerry has been the host of several BBM stress tests. BBM has its limits and either US Weekly is either unaware, or have a trick up their sleeve. Anyway, if celebrity news if your thing, scan the barcode and rock on.

You can learn more about the celebrity news provided, here.

via: CrackBerry

Source: US Weekly

Check out Aaron’s AT&T BlackBerry Torch unboxing!

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AaronTorchUnboxing

A lot of you are wanting to get your hands on your very own Torch, I know I am! I got to play with one this past weekend, and I must say I’m impressed with BlackBerry 6 and the overall design of the Torch. To get a closer look at the device before Aaron’s or my device review of the Torch, head on over to PhoneDog and check out Aaron’s unboxing video here.

You can also read Aaron’s first impressions, here.

via: PhoneDog

Rumor: BlackPad ships in November for $499?

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10x0809ub235bbx

(Photo credit: Engadget)

Rumors are beginning to turn in to facts and Apple Daily has brought some new information to the light. Quanta will be the manufacturer of the device, and it seems RIM has made large orders for their mysterious tablet. According to Apple Daily, there are two million devices slated for the expected November launch date, and another whopping eight million for 2011.

Personally, I’ve been following the BlackBerry tablet rumors as loosely as possible without losing contact with them. Since the iPad, BlackBerry fans and Android fans alike have been longing a rebuttal. Honestly, I don’t know if I’d enjoy any BlackBerry OS on a tablet. Having it on a palm-sized device is one thing, lofting it around on a 9.7″ device is another. Not only that, but BlackPad as the name, I don’t see that considering RIM and their naming schemes. The whole “pad” truffle was started with Apple’s iPad, and I don’t think RIM will want to promote that or Apple’s super, exquisite naming. Based on how RIM operates, I expect the name to be a BlackBerry ____ (insert a related, one-syllable word here). Sure, they’ve purchased blackpad.com, but that may just be to prevent anyone else from doing so. I guess only time will tell, and that time is winding down. See you in November, mystery tablet.

via: Engadget

Source: Apple Daily

T-Mobile says BlackBerry Podcast app is coming soon

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Podcast

T-Mobile is all over it today. They first announced the BlackBerry Curve 3G, then they come out saying that the BlackBerry Podcast application is on its way to our devices later this month. I have yet to try out the BlackBerry Podcast app, but I know it seems nice. I tinkered with it over the weekend when I was playing with a Torch, but I haven’t really got to sit down and use it. I’m also not sure if this is just in line with the newly announced 9300 which will support BlackBerry 6. With that being said, we can only sit and wait for the Podcast app, or you can try to get it through BetaZone. I’ve been trying to get my hands on it for a while now to no avail.

via: RIMarkable

T-Mobile officially announces the BlackBerry Curve 3G 9300, will support BlackBerry 6

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Torch week is over. Personally, I have never lived through such a hectic week in my life, but it is now over and we’re beginning a new week. One thing is for sure, RIM is not done. They have brought to the light that they still have enough flame in them to turn around their ominous slump.

T-Mobile heads this week off with the new officially announced BlackBerry Curve 3G 9300. While this news is simply under-stimulating for most, RIM has also officially stated that the 9300 will support BlackBerry 6. People have been complaining that releasing a BlackBerry with no BlackBerry 6 support at this point (the Curve 3G) would be pointless, but RIM has cleared that up for us all via press release. While I’m not sure exactly how BlackBerry 6 will feel or operate on a non-touchscreen device, the 9300 will, in fact, receive it and hopefully in a timely manner. T-Mobile said the Curve 3G will be available in the “coming weeks” with no word on pricing.

The follow is a full list of highlights of the BlackBerry Curve 3G:

  • Full QWERTY keyboard and touch-sensitive optical trackpad for responsive typing and easy navigation
  • Available in two color finishes – smoky violet and graphite grey
  • Premium phone features including calendaring, voice-activated dialing, Visual Voicemail and Bluetooth 2.1
  • Advanced media player for music, pictures and videos, with dedicated media keys and a 3.5 mm stereo headset jack, plus BlackBerry Media Sync, which makes it easy to quickly sync music from iTunes® or Windows Media Player with the smartphone
  • 2-megapixel camera with zoom and video recording · Built-in GPS with location-based services by TeleNav
  • Access to BlackBerry App World, featuring a broad and growing catalog of mobile applications developed specifically for BlackBerry smartphones. Categories include games, entertainment, social networking and sharing, news and weather, productivity, and much more.
  • Web browser delivers a desktop-like experience, including HTML e-mail
  • BlackBerry Internet Service support for access to up to 10 e-mail accounts including Yahoo!®, Windows Live Hotmail, AOL®, GmailTM and most popular ISPs; and BlackBerry Enterprise Server support, which provides advanced security and IT administration features for corporate deployments
  • Six popular instant messaging clients preloaded, including AOL Instant Messenger, Google Talk, ICQ®, Windows Live Messenger, Yahoo! Messenger and BlackBerry Messenger
  • Fast 624 MHz processor, 256MB of internal memory and hot-swappable microSD/SDHC card slot with support for up to 32GB with a pre-installed 2GB memory card
  • BlackBerry OS 5; support for BlackBerry OS 6
  • Model number: BlackBerry Curve 9300
  • Wi-Fi enabled (802.11 b/g/n) for data and voice
  • Quad-band GSM world phone: (850/900/1800/1900 MHz)
  • Tri-Band 3G UMTS/HSDPA world phone: (Band I, Band IV, Band VIII)
  • Dimensions: 4.3 inches x 2.4 inches x 0.55 inches; 3.8 ounces; 2.4-inch screen, 320×240 pixels QVGA
  • Rechargeable/removable 1150 mAhr battery, for up to 4.5 hours of talk time and 19 days of standby time

via: TmoNews | Engadget

BlackBerry Bold 9700, Bold 9650, and Pearl 3G are expected to receive BlackBerry 6

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Many of you have been wondering what devices will receive BlackBerry 6 and which will not. Buried within RIM’s official press release of BlackBerry 6 lies the answer. The expected devices to receive BlackBerry 6 are the Bold 9700, the Bold 9650, and the Pearl 3G. Seeing as the Curve is their most popular handset due to its drastically lower price, a lot of people are going to be very upset upon reading this news.

In all reality, RIM is at fault for not planning far enough ahead and putting enough internal memory in the Curve series. If RIM had worked hard and tried to fit BlackBerry 6 on the 8500 series, all it would result in is probably dissatisfaction from customers for the OS lagging again. I can’t blame RIM for that part. They were caught in a tight spot and did what they had to do. With consumer satisfaction going down the drain, they have to make controversial decisions on which devices will get what OS based on how well it can run the software. The Curve series was not built with BlackBerry 6 in mind.

Click the links to view the full press releases:

RIM Unleashes BlackBerry 6

AT&T and Research In Motion Ignite Customers with the New BlackBerry Torch

So, there you have it folks. The 9700, 9650, and 91xx are getting BlackBerry 6. The availability is pending upon carrier approval, and we all know the drill. Those of you patiently waiting with Bolds or Pearls in hand, don’t hold your breath, carriers are notorious for taking their sweet, sweet time with approving official OS updates. Back when we were all waiting on OS 5.0, I remember months passing with no word. I finally jumped the gun and downloaded a leaked version.

via: BGR

Rogers will carry the 9800 as well, in the coming weeks

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Amongst all of the hype and talk of the newly announced BlackBerry Torch 9800 coming to AT&T, it’s easy to forget that our neighbors are in on the 9800 love as well. Rogers, of Canada, posted on their site that they too will be getting their hands on the Torch “in the coming weeks.”

As you’ve already seen this morning, the Torch 9800 will include (as listed on Roger’s site):

  • A 5 megapixel camera
  • Built-in GPS and Wi-Fi
  • A new web browser
  • Enhanced multimedia features for video, music, pictures and podcasts
  • The new Social Feeds app for managing multiple social networks
  • 4 GB built-in memory plus microSD slot for memory cards up to 32 GB
  • Tri-band HSDPA (3G) and quad-band EDGE support.

We’ll share more details closer to launch.

So who has Rogers in Canada, and who plans on picking on of these bad boys up?

via: Rogers’ Redboard

BlackBerry Torch 9800 goes live on AT&T’s site a tad early

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We have all anticipated the official announcement of the 9800, and we were all still unsure of the official name of the device. Rumors had circled around that Torch was the official name, and this morning has alleviated all doubt. It has popped up in Google Ads and now AT&T’s page for the Torch has launched and made it to the party a little early. On the site you can video some videos, an image gallery, and subscribe for email information on the Torch. Who else is as excited as I am? Stay tuned for more coverage of the AT&T/BlackBerry event, and tell us your thoughts on the Torch below. To see AT&T’s page, click here.

via: BGR | AT&T