The BlackBerry Bold 9700, a smartphone, or mobile data device developed by Research In Motion (RIM) to compliment its current line of devices. Known by many as the Bold 2, it is the follow-on to the BlackBerry Bold 9000. Though similar to the Bold 9000, the Bold 9700 has a number of differences that users should be aware of.
First, the 9700 has an optical Trackpad rather than the trackball, which makes navigating the menus somewhat easier. It has the same QWERTY keyboard, however, and for those with pudgy fingers, this still presents some challenges. The camera on the 9700 is 3.2 megapixel with auto-focus and LED flash and 2X digital zoom, which is light-years ahead of the 2.0 megapixel camera that the 9000 offers. This BlackBerry is supposedly Bluetooth enabled, but there have been some reports of problems connecting to devices using Bluetooth.
The BlackBerry 9700 allows text messaging, video messaging and instant messaging. The 9700’s camera allows short video capture and playback, and has an internal music player. When you purchase the device, the following accessories are included: 2 gigabyte SD card, battery, charger, USB cable, stereo hands-free headset, desktop software, and a carrying case.
Like all the Bluetooth smartphones, the 9700 can be used to access the Internet, but there have been inexplicable problems logging on to some Web sites, including Hotmail.com.
The 9700 is physically smaller than its predecessor, which is both a plus and a minus. It makes a smaller bulge in your pocket, but the smaller size calls for more nimble fingers to smoothly operate it.
The backlit screen is marginally easier to view than earlier BlackBerry models, making it easier to read documents and view graphics. This device comes fully loaded with all the standard BlackBerry applications, including WordToGo, PowerPointToGo, BrickBreaker and WordMole. There are also downloadable upgrades and new applications available such as BlackBerry Messenger 4.7, which can be upgraded to 5.0 on line.
The main US carriers are AT&T; and T-Mobile USA. The BlackBerry 9700 can be purchased as a stand-alone device or part of a data plan. Prices vary depending upon the carrier and the extent of the plan you wish to purchase. T-Mobile, for instance, offers its Even More ™ plan for as little as $199.99 or $50 per month, and its Even More Plus ™ plan for $499.99, or $22.50 per month. AT&T; offers the 9700 for $449.99 with no data plan commitment, and $196.99 with a 2-year data plan contract. With its rebate plan, however, the price is $99.99. The two-year data contract is $30 per month, and there is an early cancellation fee. The devices and date plans for both companies can be ordered through their Web sites, and your account can be managed via Internet as well.
As mentioned earlier, the BlackBerry 9700, like most IT devices, is not without a few bugs. In addition to those already mentioned, you can’t access YouTube with its browser, and there have been some issues with voice quality. But, for keeping up with your affairs on the go, the BlackBerry continues the convenience that users have come to rely on.
References:
http://www.wireless.att.com/cell-phone-service/cell-phone-details/?device=BlackBerry%C2%AE+Bold(TM) +9700&q;_sku=sku4130251
http://www.t-mobile.com/shop/phones/Cell-Phone-Detail.aspx?cell-phone=BlackBerry-Bold-9700
http://cn.wikipedia.org/wiki/BlackBerry_9700
