BlackBerry Curve 8520 Phone Black T Mobile

Posted by Smartphone Review on March 12, 2010

BlackBerry Curve 8520 Phone Black T Mobile

The slim, affordable BlackBerry Curve 8520 for T-Mobile is perfect for those who need to be connected to work, friends and family while on the go. It provides easy mobile access to email, messaging (IM, SMS, MMS) and popular social networking sites (including Facebook and MySpace) and features a highly tactile full-QWERTY keyboard for comfortable, accurate typing. It’s compatible with T-Mobile’s myFaves service for unlimited nationwide calling to your five favorite people, and it also offers Wi-Fi connectivity for access to the Internet and email as well as access to T-Mobile’s Hotspot @Home service.

The slim BlackBerry Curve 8520 features an innovative touch-sensitive optical trackpad and full QWERTY keyboard (see larger image).

You’ll be able to access BlackBerry App World to download applications from a broad and growing catalog of third-party mobile applications developed specifically for BlackBerry smartphones, including games, entertainment, social networking and sharing, news and weather, productivity and more. Other features include a 2-megapixel camera/camcorder, Bluetooth for hands-free devices and stereo music streaming, 256 MB internal memory, microSD expansion up to 16 GB (a 1 GB card is included), quad-band GSM and EDGE connectivity, and up to 4.5 hours of talk time.

T-Mobile Services
The BlackBerry Curve 8520 operates on GSM 850/900/1800/1900 networks and can handle high-speed data connectivity via T-Mobile’s EDGE network (which stands for “Enhanced Data Rates for Global Evolution”). This high-speed, mobile data and Internet access technology is fast enough to support a wide range of advanced data services (with average data speeds between 75-135Kbps), including video and music clips, full picture and video messaging, high-speed color Internet access, and email on the go.

It’s compatible with T-Mobile’s myFaves service, which allows you to call up to five of your most common contacts–on any network, even landlines–without using any of your minutes. Learn more about myFaves from T-Mobile.

With T-Mobile HotSpot @Home service, you’ll effortlessly transition between Wi-Fi calling and T-Mobile’s wireless network while you talk. You can get unlimited nationwide calls over Wi-Fi–at home via your wireless router or at any U.S. T-Mobile HotSpot. You can also use the HotSpot @Home service via most open, or unsecured, wireless routers, as well as any secured wireless router for which you have access to the password from the owner. This phone is compatible with routers running the 802.11b/g Wi-Fi standard. Whenever you’re not using a Wi-Fi network, this phone works just like a regular mobile phone, using your Whenever Minutes under your T-Mobile voice plan.

Key Features 2 MP camera/camcorder microSD memory expansion Hands-free/stereo Bluetooth Corporate & personal email Access Facebook & MySpace Sync digital audio with iTunes and Windows Media Player Wi-Fi-enabled for T-Mobile’s HotSpot @Home service T-Mobile myFaves capable

Staying Connected
With BlackBerry’s push email technology, your email will find you without having to initiate a connection. BlackBerry devices are designed to remain on and continuously connected to the wireless network, notifying you as new email arrives. In addition to the text, you can also receive and view attachments in a wide range of popular file formats, including Microsoft Office, Corel WordPerfect, and Adobe PDF.

Browse the web with the integrated, full-featured browser, which quickly and efficiently displays HTML pages as well as enables you to set up RSS feeds to stay connected to up-to-the-minute news and blog posts. And keep up with your contacts using a variety of instant message (IM) networks, including the integrated Blackberry Messenger as well as downloadable clients for Google Talk, Yahoo! Messenger, and Lotus Sametime.

For corporate users, the Curve delivers all the enterprise email and messaging capabilities you’ve come to expect. It’s supported on BlackBerry Internet Service, giving you access to up to 10 work or personal email accounts (including most popular ISP email accounts–including Yahoo!, Windows Live Hotmail, AOL and Gmail), as well as BlackBerry Enterprise Server, enabling advanced security and IT administration within IBM Lotus Domino, Microsoft Exchange and Novell GroupWise environments.

Wi-Fi-enabled and compatible with unlimited nationwide Wi-Fi calling with T-Mobile’s Unlimited HotSpot Calling service (see larger image).

Phone Features
Designed to be efficient and convenient, the BlackBerry Curve 8520 introduces an innovative touch-sensitive optical trackpad, which makes scrolling and selection smooth and easy for a great navigation experience. Like a laptop, the trackpad lets you scroll through menus, icons and info by gliding your finger over it. Press and click to select an item and navigate to where you want to go. It’s complemented by a 35-key backlit QWERTY keyboard.

It is also the first BlackBerry smartphone to feature dedicated media keys, smoothly integrated along the top of the handset, providing an easy, convenient way to control your music and video playback. Skip over songs, pause music to talk, or repeat your favorites over and over. You can even mute phone calls with the easy-access mute button. The phone also features a bright 2.6-inch color TFT screen that supports 65K colors and has a 320 x 240-pixel resolution. It has a 256 MB internal memory that can be expanded via optional microSD/SDHC memory cards up to 16 GB in size (a 1 GB card is included in the package.

Hands-free communication is easy thanks to the integrated speakerphone. This phone also provides Bluetooth wireless connectivity (version 2.0), and includes profiles for communication headset, hands-free car kits, and file transfer. With the A2DP Bluetooth profile, you can stream your music to a pair of compatible Bluetooth stereo headphones. You can connect your laptop (either via Bluetooth or wired USB) and enjoy dial-up networking–surf the Internet, send email, and access files from a server (additional charges or subscription applicable).

You can snap vivid photos (though no video) using the 2-megapixel camera on the back of the Curve 8520, which also features a 5x digital zoom, built-in flash, self-portrait mirror and full screen viewfinder. Additionally, it can capture videos in two resolutions (320 x 240 pixels for saving; 176 x 144 pixels for sending via messaging). Take photos or videos and upload them to photo sharing apps like Flickr Uploader or social networking sites like Facebook and MySpace. Send them to friends with MMS messages, BlackBerry Messenger or other instant messaging apps.

Listen to your favorite music and watch downloaded videos using the included stereo headset, or use an optional wireless headphone thanks to the Curve’s support for the Bluetooth stereo audio profile (A2DP/AVRCP). The Curve is compatible with a wide variety of file formats, including MP3, WMA9 PRO/WMA 10 and AAC/AAC+/eAAC+ audio and WMV, MPEG4 and H.263 video. And with BlackBerry Media Sync you can quickly and easily sync music from iTunes and Windows Media Player with the smartphone.

Other features include:

• Mac compatibility with the upcoming release of BlackBerry Desktop Software for Mac, enabling you to sync contacts, calendars, and notes with applications you use most.
• 512 MHz next-generation processor for enhanced performance
• Voice dialing: Call someone with simple voice commands to keep your hands free for activities like driving.
• Media Keys: Play/Pause/Mute, Back, Forward
• Security: Password protection, keyboard lock, sleep mode
• 3.5mm headphone jack
• Ringtones: MP3 and 32-chord polyphonic
• Bluetooth version 2.0 with the following profiles: A2DP (stereo music streaming), AVRC (remote control), HFP (hands-free car kits), HSP (communication headsets), DUN (dial-up networking), SPP (serial port profile)

Vital Statistics
The BlackBerry Curve 8520 weighs 3.8 ounces and measures 2.4 x 4.3 x 0.5 inches. Its 1150 mAh lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 4.5 hours of talk time, and up to 408 hours (17 days) of standby time. It runs on the 850/900/1800/1900 MHz GSM/GPRS/EDGE frequencies.

User Ratings and Reviews

4 Stars Great Entry Level Blackberry - 3G is Still Missing
I’ve been a long time AT&T costumer. I thought I could live without having an actual keyboard when it comes to texting, but after a week without my Sidekick Keyboard - I decided to ditch my Samsung Eternity for the Blackberry Curve 8520.

I was hesitant about purchasing this smart phone because I was never a fan of Blackberry’s (RIMM). I had a BB during their initial boom in the early part of the new millennium. However, the poor browser, poor cell phone network, lackluster screen color, non desirable keyboard, awful battery life, whack OS, & lack of T9 predictive text just couldn’t win me over.

After I realized that I couldn’t text on a touch screen phone, unless it was the iPhone. I decided that I must have a cell phone device with an actual qwerty keyboard, if I expect to survive my text message & email addiction.

I picked up the Blackberry 8520 with my corporate discount and walked away with a nice high end phone at a very reasonable price. I have to say that I really enjoy the web browser on the new BB. You can zoom in & out with ease. I thought no browser could compare to the iPod Safari besides the Android G1, but after getting this device - I can safely say that this browser is also one of the best. Its right behind the safari and G1. Prior models were confined to small screens, thirty-five dollar internet only data plans, and no ability to zoom in or out. You were subjected to a small screen and reading small text till your eyes was squinting like grandmas.

Pros:

New Optical Trackpad (Over the old Trackball)

Big vibrant screen

3.5 MM headjack

New OS

Decent call quality (No issues yet)

Excellent new broswer

Mini SD up to 16GB (Wish it was 32GB)

Use your songs as ringers

Wi-Fi

Personal Email (Up to 10 accounts can be added)

IM

Themes

Applications (Coming on April 1st)

My Favs

Full HTML Web Browser (Sometimes)

Excellent Multimedia Player (Accepts every format possible)

Includes 2 chargers (Wall Charger & USB charger)

Includes ear phones and carry case

Cons:

For long time BB users, this device is really just a cosmetic upgrade with a new OS (Flashier Icons)

Micro USB (No more Mini USB)

Video & Camera (2.0 Megapixel as oppose to 5.0)

Still no 3G (I thought i could live without it, but TMobile has no 3G BB yet & its really about time)

Cheap plastic rubber casing

Non RIMM Consumer Changes Mind!

For anyone who has wanted a BB but held off on getting one and want an entry level Blackberry at a decent price - this is the model to get. Everything about it is an upgrade. The device is basically the BB Bold with a different casing. The battery life could still use some more juice. With excessive email checking & non stop texting, the phone usually needs a charge after a day and a half of usage (Sometimes i can go a charge for 2 days before a charge so thats not bad). I did set the brightness of the phone to the lowest brightness available and it has lasted for a little over 2 days with no charge needed. Even on the lowest brightness, the screen is still very bright, sharp, & crisp. And i still do unlimited texting & web browsing. However, AT&T doesn’t offer the best mobile minute plans on earth & their data plan is probably one of themost expensive around. They are fully aware that their signal is one of the best & in doing so, make up for it by charging their non-friendly services at non-friendly prices, which usually doesn’t offers an abundant amount of minutes, unlimited data, internet, email, text etc will end up costing you a lot!

One complaint from other phone techs is the lack of 3G. Yes, i was disappointed that the device is only on EDGE & Wi-Fi, but if you have a 3G enabled phone with only 1 signal bar - The chances of having a 3G signal is pretty slim. The EDGE browser signal on this device is fine & works just fine. I havent encountered any issues & comparing it with a 3G phone - the thing almost runs at the same pace. NO major biggy at all! I have used the wi-fi a few times & i think its super fast on Wi-Fi.

I pay under seventy bucks a month for a decent amount of mins & unlimited everything else. My friend has a similar plan on Verizon, its not unlimited, and her bill is always over a hundred each month.

5 Stars GREAT BB!
I just bought this BB and let me tell you it is great, the features in this device are very nice..

First at all I have to tell to those who says this device looks with a lower quality because it is cheaper that your are SO Wrong!! it looks classy and modern, the black one that I own.

Although the lack of flash might seem like bummer, let me tell you that for me is not that big deal, cuz at night if you have proper light you can take very decent pictures, the missing flash its something I can live without.

The track pad is the greatest of all features, You wouldn’t beleive how diferent and better than the track ball this feature is, no wonder why RIM wants to incorporate this track pad to all the future models!!It is such great evolution to the BB world.

Excellent phone, I recomed it 110% !!!!!!!!!!

4 Stars More bang for your buck with this new Curve (minus some key features) 3 1/2 stars…
Why are all BlackBerrys so expensive? Why can’t we get the latest model in a reasonable price? The BlackBerry Bold was $299 with a two-year contract when it was first released on the AT&T network. The new Tour is $199 (with mail-rebate ) in both Verizon and Sprint. The Curve 8900 is $149 in T-Mobile — still a little too steep for some people. Lower end users rejoice! Here comes the new Curve 8520! This new addition to the BB family has a new design and some introductory features, at an affordable price from T-Mobile.

What separates this phone from others of the BB family is the new optical trackpad. Instead of a trackball, you use the trackpad to navigate, scroll and click on the contents of your phone. It’s similar to trackpads found in the new MacBooks and some netbooks, and it is similar to the Storm’s click-touchscreen, and it’s quite easy to use. In fact, it is better than the trackball, in my opinion, because it moves faster and it’s less likely to break or skip applications on you. It only took me about ten minutes to get used to it and so far I’m loving it. The 8520 also sports a new look. It is mostly made of some sturdy plastic, with rubbery edges and side-buttons, and with music buttons on the top of the phone for easy access to your entertainment. This new BlackBerry seems to be marketed for multimedia phone lovers as well as smartphone users. You get a bit of both, for this BB still has its useful business functionalities. The QWERTY keypad is easy comfortable to type on, no much change there. T-Mobile offers WiFi for faster Internet speed as well as making phone calls through that network (instead of using your minutes). All you have to do is be at a WiFi hotspot to take advantage of this useful and affordable feature.

As good as the Curve 8520 is, there are some downsides to it as well.

* A mediocre camera. It has a 2 MP camera with no flash. A big downgrade from the Curve 8900 and the Tour 9630. If you like to take good pictures, this is not the best camera phone for you.

* No 3G network. But we already know that T-Mobile doesn’t have 3G in most of the country yet, don’t we? (Kind of obsolete if you ask me. Especially since other carriers like Sprint are already announcing the long-awaited 4G network.) You’ll have to settle for EDGE speeds if you’re nowhere near a WiFi hotspot.

* The phone’s overall look is below par to other BlackBerrys. It doesn’t feel as luxurious or as sexy as the Bold, Storm, Curve or Tour. It kind of looks like the older BlackBerrys, actually, especially the frost-colored one. I guess that’s what you get for paying less for a smartphone.

* The screen resolution isn’t as bright as the Bold, Storm and Tour. The WOW factor is cut shorter in yet another cool feature. It’s no big deal, but it’s disappointing nevertheless.

That is all I can think of at the moment. You may take the good with the bad when you decide to buy this phone. However, for the price it’s more than just great. You get it for $129 if you go to the T-Mobile store, or you can get it for even less if you buy it on this site or take advantage of any of the other promotions available in stores like BestBuy or Radio Shack. Good luck and enjoy.

5 Stars FIRST BLACKBERRY AND I JUST LOVE IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
THIS IS MY FIRST EVER BLACKBERRY AND LET ME TELL U THAT I REALLY LOVE THIS PHONE. TECHINICALLY ITS MY 2ND ONE, THE FIRST ONE I OWED WAS THE BALCKBERRY PEARL FLIP BUT I ONLY OWNED IT FOR LIKE ABOUT 1 MONTH BECAUSE I GOT FRUSTRATED WITH IT AND SMASHED IT AND BROKE IT! IT KEPT ON FREEZING UP ON ME AND TO RESET IT I HAD TO REMOVE THE BATTERY AND THEN LET IT LOAD UP AGAIN, THE LOADING TIME TOOK FOR EVER! ITS ALOT EASIER TO TEXT WITH THIS PHONE THAN IT WAS WITH THE PEARL FLIP, OR MY RAZR. MY BILL IS A LITTLE HIGH BUT ITS REALLY WORTH IT, $95 MONTHLY INCLUDED ARE UNLIMITED MINUTES, UNLIMITED MY FAVES MIN, UNLIMITED AIM, UNLIMITED YAHOO IM, UNLIMITED TEXT MESSAGING, UNLIMITED WEB BROWSING, UNLIMITED EVERYTHING. I WAS THINKING OF GOING TO BOOSTMOBILE BUT I THOUGHT IT OVER MORE THAN TWICE, MY BILL IS HIGH BUT ITS WORTH IT. NO MORE WORRYING OF GOING OVER MY MINUTES OR GETTING OVERCHARGED FOR TEXT MESSAGES. WITH MY RAZR MY BILL WAS HIGH ON MORE THAN ONCE OCCASION, 85, 90, ETC, ETC, AND THAT WAS DUE TO THE OVER TEXT MESSAGING. GET THIS PHONE, YOU WILL LOVE IT LIKE I LOVE MINE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Buy/More Info

HTC DROID Eris Android Phone Verizon Wireless

Posted by Smartphone Review on March 11, 2010

HTC DROID Eris Android Phone Verizon Wireless

Combining performance and functionality in one sleek package, the ultra-slim HTC DROID ERIS brings the power of the Android platform and the fast, reliable Verizon Wireless network together. Powered by the open-source Android operating system, it offers an intuitive interface with an easily customizable home screen and the ability to personalize it with a wide selection of free and paid downloadable apps via the Android Market. It also includes HTC Sense, a user interface overlay from HTC that makes it easy for you to create an individualized mobile experience tailored specifically to your needs.

The 3G-enabled HTC DROID ERIS runs on the fast, reliable Verizon Wireless network and is powered by the customizable Android platform, with 1000s of apps available to on the Android Market.

Customizable apps.

The 3.2-inch touchscreen interface features zoom capability and a virtual QWERTY keyboard, and it’s paired with a trackball for easy navigation. In addition to 3G connectivity, the HTC DROID ERIS offers Wi-Fi networking (802.11b/g) for accessing home and business networks as well as hotspots while on the go and Bluetooth connectivity for both hands-free devices and stereo music streaming. It also offers integrated GPS for navigation using Google Maps and other location services, as well as a digital compass with a sensor that enables the phone to know what direction it is facing.

With integrated Google technology, the HTC DROID ERIS brings one-touch access to the popular Google mobile services millions use every day, including Google Search by Voice, YouTube and Picasa. The DROID ERIS also provides easy access to both personal and corporate email, calendars, and contacts supported by Exchange Server and Gmail. Other features include a 5-megapixel auto focus camera with video capture capabilities, memory expansion via microSD memory cards (an 8 GB card is included with the device), threaded text and picture messaging for seamless on-the-go conversations, Visual Voicemail capabilities, 3.5mm headset jack, and up to 3.5 hours of talk time.

The HTC DROID ERIS comes pre-loaded with a variety of Google and Verizon Wireless mobile services, including:

• Google Maps: Get turn-by-turn directions and instantly view maps and satellite imagery, as well as find local business. And Google Maps Street View enables you to explore cities at street-level virtually while on the go.
• Gmail: Multiple accounts support and undo for common operations.
• YouTube: One-touch recording and playback from home screen widget or app, one-touch sharing with friends, and the ability to view your own uploaded videos and high-resolution videos.
• Google Talk: Easily switch between chats, search your chat history, and preview pictures and videos sent by links.
• Android Market: Browse and download applications created by third-party developers.
• Calendar: Ability to see who has R.S.V.P.’d to your meeting invitations.
• Amazon MP3 Store: Download the latest tracks over the air.
• Verizon Wireless Visual Voice Mail: Delete, reply and forward voice mail messages without having to listen to prior messages or voice instructions.

Key Features

• Fast 3G connectivity thanks to the reliable Verizon Wireless EV–DO, Rev A network
• Powered by the Android 1.5 operating system with deep integration of Google services and access to thousands of apps to customize your phone via the Android Market.
• HTC Scene overlay: Create and switch between Scenes that reflect different moments in your life, helping you design your perfect weekend, travel or pure play phone.
• 3.2-inch touchscreen with virtual QWERTY keyboard (320 x 480 HVGA resolution; 262K color depth)
• 5-megapixel camera with auto–focus and video capture
• Wi-Fi networking (802.11b/g) for accessing home and corporate networks as well as hotspots while on the go.
• Bluetooth connectivity (version 2.1) includes profiles for communication headset, hands-free car kits, and the A2DP Bluetooth profile–enabling you to wirelessly stream your music to a pair of compatible Bluetooth stereo headphones or speaker dock.
• Memory expansion via microSD card slot with support for optional cards up to 16 GB (8 GB card included).
• Multi-format digital audio player with dedicated Amazon MP3 Store app for over-the-air downloads. Includes compatibility with MP3, AAC, AAC+, eAAC+, and WMA formats and the capability to create and manage playlists on the phone.
• Real HTML Web browsing provides more pages and better Web content delivered efficiently to your phone; supports Flash Lite 3.7.1.
• Standard voice mail and compatibility with Verizon Visual Voice Mail (subscription required), which enables you to delete, reply and forward voice mail messages without having to listen to prior messages or voice instructions. Features include on-screen access to voice mail message status, save up to 40 messages for 40 days (or archive permanently), create up to 10 different caller ID-based greetings, and reply via call back, text or even voice mail.
• Text, Picture and Video messaging with threaded messaging feature
• Organizer tools including calendar, tasks, alarm, notes, stopwatch
• Airplane mode allows you to listen to music while the cellular connectivity is turned off
• Integrated Google, Exchange and Facebook contacts
• Speakerphone
• 3.5mm headset jack
• TTY compatible
• Hearing Aid Compatibility = M3/T3
• Memory: ROM: 512 MB; RAM: 256 MB

Vital Statistics
The HTC DROID ERIS weighs 4.23 ounces and measures 4.45 x 2.19 x 0.51 inches. Its lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 3.5 hours (214 minutes) of talk time, and up to 373 hours (15.5 days) of standby time. It runs on the CDMA 800/1900 frequencies as well as EV–DO, Rev A 3G frequencies.

What’s in the Box
HTC DROID ERIS handset, rechargeable battery, wall/USB charger, 8 GB microSD memory card, quick start guide, user manual

User Ratings and Reviews

5 Stars Only problem is the battery life . .
and that can be solved by either using a free aplication killer app, getting a better battery (they have a high performance battery on sale at Amazon, and my personal favorite getting a docking port that charges the battery in the phone plus a spare. And you can of course just not dowload a hundred applicatins that looked really cool, but you’re never going to use after you played with them for a while.

And you can’t beat the price!

5 Stars I love my phone
After a few weeks of using the Droid Eris, I can only gush about what a great experience using this phone is. The form factor is, in my opinion, much prettier than it’s big brother Droid, and the HTC’s Sense UI is a cinch to get the hang of (and beautiful as well). The apps for Android are many and useful. I opted to buy the Seidio Innocell 1750 mAh Battery for HTC Droid Eris after using the standard Eris battery and coming to the conclusion many others have, the stock battery sucks. But, with the price of this phone being so low, paying $49.99 for a new battery (and another $23 for the Seidio Innocase II Surface Case for HTC Droid Eris (Blue), AWESOME case), I am in LOVE. I was thinking of switching to AT&T for the iPhone, but I am so happy with my Eris and what it’s capable of that I haven’t looked back.

3 Stars half-baked
This phone has a lot of promise. The Android operating system gives you tight integration with Google Voice (which can automatically make your international calls for you for pennies per minute) and Google Mail. Using “Mytracks” with the GPS is fun and useful. And, well, it’s cool having internet in your pocket. But:

- every time I booted the phone, Google Voice would crash.

- the HTC input program, that lets you type text into the phone, would crash in the middle of emails and not let my type until I rebooted.

- many of my conversations were badly muffled. I googled this and followed instructions on switching to “EVRC-B” form “EVRC” (these are algorithms used to encode voices). The quality improved, but people have reported not being able to make calls from some parts of the country after making this switch. Without it, the quality was patchy for me (Boston area). I didn’t want to have to play with internal network settings to get the phone to work.

- The phone dropped calls, giving a “Signal Faded” message. I checked with Verizon, and this wasn’t recorded by the network as a dropped call - therefore it was the phone. I never had this problem with my cheap flip phone.

- I couldn’t play Youtube videos through the Youtube player.

- the phone was laggy. This means you’re typing and letters aren’t appearing, then appear all at once. Or it means that you’re looking through your call history to make a call, press on a number, and call the wrong number because it took 5 seconds to update the list display.

- with moderate usage the battery lasts about 6 hours. This is usually fine if you’re between office, home and car chargers, but sometimes it’s not enough. I was always turning parts of the phone off to save battery life.

- video quality is poor, particularly the sound, compared to an iPhone (which admittedly is more expensive).

In short, you get what you pay for. This phone is really cheap - but the savings are small compared to the cost of a 2-year plan, and I’d recommend getting the best phone you can to take advantage of the investment that plan represents.

4 Stars Very Good Phone, almost…Great
The Good:

-8 GB SD Card

-Screen Resolution

-Customizable screens

-Numerous(useful, useless, and pointless) free apps

-Lightweight

-Music Player

-Touchscreen keyboard has a minimal learning curve, very easy to use

-Vertical or horizontal screen

Could be better:

-Camera, don’t let the 5.0 megapixel fool you, it takes decent pictures but not as good as the Moto Droid or Samsung Omnia which are similar phones with 5 MP cameras

The Bad:

-Because it cannot be said enough, the battery. Absolutely awful.

-Flash Player or lack thereof, difficult time with YouTube videos and the YouTube app(which is pre-installed) doesn’t play vids at all and I have seen MULTIPLE complaints on YouTube’s help forum about this same issue with no resolution

Overall:

I am happy with the phone, there are a few nuisances that perhaps the 2.1 upgrade will fix when it becomes available. For the price, you can’t beat it.

4 Stars Splendid phone for the price
This is one great little phone for the money. I just bought it a couple days ago for 80 bucks (after rebate). So far so good.

This has been my first exposure to Andriod, and so far I love it. Especially with HTC’s sense UI…Phew! Transitions are mostly smooth, and I don’t find the phone to lag unless I’m transitioning from heavier-weight apps (for instance, from a game to the home screen will sometimes lag a second or two).

Pros:

*Android

*Touch-Screen

*Android Market. Seriously, this has almost ruined my productivity and efficiency. A lot of time can be spent just browsing and downloading very cool apps. This is a wonderfully fun pass-time.

Cons:

*No update for Android 2 (yet!…I’ve seen pages on the web saying that HTC is going to release one soon, though)

*No physical keyboard. This isn’t a big deal for me, but at least give it some thought as a virtual keyboard isn’t for everybody

*Battery life. This one I’m not used to. Coming off of a full charge, my phone will not last me more than one day. Compared to other phones (albeit, they weren’t full featured phones), this performance is pretty poor. Within approx. one hour, the charge will drop from 100% to 80%, and then, after that, discharge more slowly ~10% per hour. All in all, I would estimate that I get around ~8-9 hrs total battery life out of a full charge. This is what brings it down to a four-star. If the battery lasted longer, I would give this phone five stars, hands down.

Bottom line:

If this phone was lost or stolen, I would definitely want another one. This is such an upgrade from my previous phone experience, though, that I may not be entirely objective. But for anybody just wanting a fun phone, BUY THIS one! You can’t get much better for the price.

Buy/More Info

BlackBerry Tour 9630 Phone Black Sprint

Posted by Smartphone Review on

BlackBerry Tour 9630 Phone Black Sprint

The feature-packed and highly refined BlackBerry Tour 9630 world phone for Sprint keeps you connected and lets you roam the globe in style. In addition to accessing the reliable and fast Verizon Wireless voice and data network, the Tour is also compatible with 3G-enabled GSM networks outside the United States, giving you the option to make phone calls in over 185 countries and to access email and Internet in any of the nearly 150 countries where Sprint provides data roaming services.

Roam where you want to with the BlackBerry Tour 3G world phone, which provides the option to make phone calls in over 185 countries and to access email/Internet in nearly 150 countries where Sprint Wireless provides data roaming services (see larger image).

Ideally suited for those who want to stay socially connected, the Tour 9630 lets you share pictures and videos via MMS and instant message on popular IM services or BlackBerry Messenger. It also offers easy access to your favorite social networking sites like Flickr, MySpace and Facebook.

In addition to fast 3G speeds from Sprint’s Wi’s high-speed 3G network, you’ll enjoy GPS navigation capabilities for accessing the optional Sprint Navigation turn-by-turn direction service as well as access to Sprint TV’s video-on-demand with full-motion video and vivid sound. And the Tour comes packed with all the communication and professional functionality you expect from a BlackBerry device, including a push-based mobile solution for email and access to Microsoft Office files.

The BlackBerry Tour includes a large, highly tactile, full-QWERTY keyboard and a large 2.4-inch display with one of the highest resolutions available yet on a BlackBerry device. Other features include a 3.2-megapixel camera/camcorder with geo-tagging capabilities, Bluetooth connectivity for handsfree devices and stereo music streaming, MicroSD memory expansion (a 1 GB card is included), support for BlackBerry App World, and up to 5 hours of talk time.

Sprint Services
The BlackBerry Tour operates domestically on the Sprint 3G network, and globally on 2100 MHz UMTS/HSPA and quad-band GSM/EDGE/GPRS networks (850/900/1800/1900 MHz) where Sprint has international roaming agreements. With the Tour, Sprint customers have the power to make or receive phone calls in more than 185 countries and access BlackBerry data services including email and Web browsing in nearly 150 countries.

Stay connected with a push-based mobile solution for e-mail, messaging (IM, SMS, MMS), and social networking.

Sprint’s Worldwide BlackBerry plan gives customers unlimited BlackBerry email and Web access in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and other locations using CDMA technology, and with GSM/GPRS carriers abroad where Sprint has applicable roaming agreements. The plan is available for $69.99 per month, or just $40 per month (excluding taxes and surcharges) as an attachable to Simply Everything, Everything Data, Everything Data Family or Business Essentials with Messaging and Data.

Supporting the EV-DO high-speed data standard on Sprint’s U.S. network, this phone enables you to download and stream high-quality video, straight onto your phone. Where coverage is available, EV-DO connectivity provides average download speeds ranging from 400 to 700 Kbps, with peak rates up to 2 Mbps. With Sprint TV, you can make your cell phone your always-on source for news, weather, sports and more. This comprehensive video service combines high-quality streaming audio and video from channels including the NFL Network, ABC, The Weather Channel, Fox Sports, E!, CNN, The Discovery Channel, and more.

The Sprint Music Store enables you to buy, download, and then jam out wherever you are with new songs or old favorites. Offering a growing selection of more than 1.6 million songs, the store provides you two copies of each song–one for the phone and another for the PC, as well as the ability to burn songs to a CD using Windows Media Player. Save your songs to a memory card with a capacity that’s right for you. You also get several streaming-radio applications, including Sprint Radio with more than 150 channels.

This GPS-enabled phone provides optional access to Sprint Navigation for driving directions on your mobile phone–by voice and onscreen. Along the way, turn-by-turn directions will be announced in a clear voice and displayed on your phone. For example, Sprint Navigation will say, “Go 1.2 miles and turn right on Elm Street.” As you approach the turn, you will hear, “Turn right on Elm Street.” Sprint Navigation also provides proactive traffic alerts with one click re-routing. And it’s easy to find restaurants, banks, cafes, hotels and more from over 10 million points of interest across the U.S.

Other features include GPS location services, a 3.2-megapixel camera/camcorder with geo-tagging capabilities, Bluetooth stereo music streaming, MicroSD expansion (with included 1 GB card).

Stay Sporty with Sprint
With NASCAR Sprint Cup Mobile, instantly connect to the NASCAR information you want, when you want it. Follow NASCAR action from practice to race day with real-time leaderboard and alerts. Get exclusive access to your favorite NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver with real-time driver stats, breaking news and more. Live in-car audio, race radio, NASCAR on SPEED and other audio/video only available on select phones. Visit sprint.com/speed for details.

To access, just text “NASCAR” to 7777 on your Sprint phone or visit the Sprint Digital Lounge to download NASCAR Sprint Cup Mobile (standard text messaging and data rates apply).

This phone also provides access to NFL Mobile Live–your all-access pass to the NFL from DRAFT to Super Bowl. Stay on top of every game with real-time red zone alerts, game center scores, stats, and more. Manage your fantasy football team like a pro with up-to-the-minute insights, analysis, stats and alerts. Access by texting “NFL” to 7777 on the handset to download NFL Mobile Live from Sprint Digital Lounge (standard text messaging and data rates apply).

Phone Features
The BlackBerry Tour 9630 features a chic black finish with chrome highlights surrounding its sleek design and a bright 2.4-inch display that delivers the highest resolution available on a BlackBerry smartphone (480 x 360 resolution at 245 ppi)–presenting pictures, web pages and videos with incredible clarity. The Tour includes a trackball navigation system located on the top of the QWERTY keypad with finely sculpted keys for fast and precise typing. It also features an integrated spell checker with a customizable dictionary to help maintain accuracy while on the go.

It offers premium phone features including voice activated dialing, enhanced background noise cancellation, and a low-distortion speakerphone. This phone also provides Bluetooth wireless connectivity (version 2.0), and includes profiles for communication headset, handsfree car kits, and file transfer. With the A2DP Bluetooth profile, you can stream your music to a pair of compatible Bluetooth stereo headphones. You can connect your laptop (either via Bluetooth or wired USB) and enjoy dial-up networking–surf the Internet, send email, and access files from a server (additional charges or subscription applicable).

With BlackBerry push technology, you don’t need to retrieve your e-mail. BlackBerry devices are designed to remain on and continuously connected to the wireless network, allowing you to be discreetly notified as new e-mail arrives. Support is also built-in for viewing e-mail attachments (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, WordPerfect, and PDF formats).

With the BlackBerry Internet Service, you’ll be able to easily access up to 10 supported personal and work email accounts, send and receive text and instant messages, and connect on popular social networking sites with friends, family and co-workers. It’s also compatible with BlackBerry Enterprise Server, which provides advanced security and IT administration features within IBM Lotus Domino, Microsoft Exchange and Novell GroupWise environments.

In addition to the industry’s leading mobile email and messaging solution, the Tour supports text (SMS), picture (MMS) and instant messaging (IM) on today’s most popular platforms as well as social networking sites. Take your social life on-the-go with Facebook for BlackBerry and Flickr Photo Uploader for BlackBerry application. A Mobile IM feature provides access to Google Talk, MSN, Yahoo!, Windows Live, and AIM instant messaging services.

The media player can play movies smoothly in full-screen mode, display pictures and slideshows quickly and manage an entire music and video collection, and with BlackBerry Media Sync you can quickly and easily sync music from iTunes and Windows Media Player with the smartphone. The Tour comes with a 256 MB flash memory (and 256 MB of RAM), and the device is expandable via MicroSD/SDHC memory cards up to 16 GB in size (a 1 GB card is included with the Tour).

Other features include:

• 3.2-megapixel camera with auto-focus, image stabilization, 2x digital zoom, geo-tagging capabilities, and video capture
• Support for BlackBerry App World, featuring a broad and growing catalog of third-party mobile applications developed specifically for BlackBerry smartphones. Categories include travel, productivity, entertainment, games, social networking and sharing, news and weather, and more.
• Voice Activated Dialing: The built-in speaker independent voice command lets you use your voice to look up contacts, place phone calls and get key information from your device.
• Preloaded DataViz Documents to Go, allowing you to edit Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint files directly on the handset.
• BlackBerry 4.7 Desktop Software with integrated email, phone, SMS, browser, calendar, address book, and additional organizer applications
• English, French and Spanish language support
• Ring Tones: 32 Polyphonic + vibrate (MIDI, MP3)
• Password protection and keyboard lock
• 3.5mm stereo headset jack
• Video format support: MPEG4 H.263, MPEG4 Part 2 Simple Profile, H.264 (encoding and decoding 30fps), WMV
• Audio format support: MP3, AAC, AAC+, eAAC+, WMA, WMA ProPlus
• Hearing Aid Compatibility = M3

Vital Statistics
The BlackBerry Tour 9630 weighs 4.58 ounces and measures 4.4 x 2.4 x 0.6 inches. Its 1400 mAh lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 5 hours of talk time, and up to 336 hours (14 days) of standby time. It runs on the 800/1900 MHz CDMA frequencies and is compatible with the EV-DO 3G data network when on the Sprint network in the US; in international territories, it’s compatible with 850/900/1800/1900 MHz GSM/GPRS/EDGE networks as well as 2100 MHz 3G (UMTS) networks.

User Ratings and Reviews

2 Stars Very disappointed
After witnessing the near addiction Blackberry owners seem to have with their thumbs feverishly flying all over the keyboard in near ecstasy, it seemed like maybe it was time to see what all the enthusiasm was about. I travel internationally every week so the tour seemed like a no-brainer. For a few days it seemed I had joined the zombie army also and couldn’t put it down. After having it a few months to make a level headed assessment now I can pass on my accurate impressions and sorry to say they aren’t very positive. On the plus side, the “push” technology is welcome. While this feature is especially ideal for the business user which comprises the core of Blackberry users, it holds great appeal to the e-mail addicted among us who like to feel like the newscasters who receive a paper from off camera and then solemnly say, “this just in”. Like most smartphones, having the icons on screen waiting to be easily accessed is convenient and there are a fair number of simple apps available at modest cost. The negatives are many and serious. Most irksome is the processor itself and the fact that the unit is painfully slow. It takes forever to boot; if it is receiving a message or downloading something in the background i.e. news or weather, it is completely unresponsive to commands. Second is the abysmal functioning of the trackball. It constantly gets stuck or moves with no result. Exasperating. The battery time is ridiculously short. Depending on usage it may not even last an entire day. You simply must have a second fully charged battery at the ready to swap out and then wait for the sloooow boot up again. Although the keyboard is supposed to be improved, I still find myself constantly mis-hitting. The tour 2 is making a debut and is said to address some of these and other issues. In fairness, I have talked to people who love their Tour. But if I could do it over again I would not make this purchase and discourage like minded users to avoid it.

4 Stars First time BlackBerry user
I heard many friends describe how they are addicted to their BlackBerry. A few months ago I decided to see what the hype was all about. I was pleasantly surprised to find out that this phone lives up to the hype and then some.

PROS

1) Big, clear screen

2) Push email

3) Built in CDMA and GSM radios (great for international use)

4) BlackBerry messenger and BlackBerry App World

5) GPS with Google Maps

6) Fairly good camera

7) Good call quality and battery life

CONS

1) Takes forever to boot up

2) Sometimes gets sluggish

3) Text messaging system is antiquated (needs iPhone-like threaded messages)

Overall this is a great phone. It allowed me to sync all my social outlooks (email, IM, facebook, etc) to the phone seamlessly. The BB browser, although not great, does an decent job at rendering web pages. I’ve heard some people complain about the trackball wearing out, so far I have seen no signs of this on my phone. If you want a complete smartphone, you would be hard pressed to find a better one than the Tour. I have become a Crackberry addict.

3 Stars its a good phone
i think its a good phone and network and i would recommend to other pple.

4 Stars Shall we dance?
Blackberry Tour is my new phone. It replaced my not so old Blackberry Curve from Sprint. So far, Sprint is offering it in just one colour but I don’t see to many people complaining about it. This is slightly more pleasing in terms of looks and design. Anyone who hasn’t had this phone and is considering buying it, would usually give in just by the looks of it. The graphics are a substantial improvement from the quite good Blackberry curve display. I won’t go into boring specifications such as pixels and resolution but yeah the resolution is improved as one would notice while surfing the internet.

Now, let us talk about the major features of the phone. Everyone is wondering, what is different about the Blackberry Tour and the Blackberry Curve? In simple words, the tour has a better camera, different keys, no trackball ring, brighter display and new interface, a SIM card slot so you can use the phone in places outside of USA when you don’t wish to use Sprint’s global service.

Where the Blackberry has improved -

1. The memory stick can be removed without taking the battery out and switching the phone off.

2. The speaker is louder than before and if you try using Pandora, it is I dare say, flawless at 65% volume for a living room. The playlist is slightly better looking and doesn’t look like an 8bit arcade game anymore.

3. When you’re going through your files, the browsing is slightly faster and you won’t need to wait minutes while going through your pictures. Also the camera is a 3.2 MEGAPIXEL and in simple terms, the camera is WAY BETTER than the blackberry curve. The blackberry curve gave grainy photographs and the pixels seems to be all over the place. The tour’s camera takes better pictures in the dark and there is not a very big lag between when you press the click button and the picture is captured. The best camera on any Sprint phone would be the Palm Pre’s camera but we’re not discussing that phone.

4. The charger is now the other side of the phone and this headphone jack doesn’t always accept all earphones despite being 3.5 mm. No more standard USB jacks - the new Blackberry uses mini usb and rightfully so.

5. Even on 10% brightness, the TOUR seems more vibrant and colour conscious.

6. A lot of people moan and whine about the trackball on this phone but its way better than the Curve!

Where the Blackberry Curve is missed -

The keypad on the blackberry tour may appear better but I could fly on the blackberry curve without making any errors. This was mainly because there was a slight gap between the keys, that gap is missing on the Tour…The tour’s keys don’t allow for the easiest typing experience and though I’m fast on it, I really think the Blackberry Curve keys were flawless. The Tour sometimes heats up, it is very moody that way.

The blackberry curve has a great battery life. The Tour will last you for about a day. Enough said about battery.

I would advise everyone to backup all your data. If for whatever reason your internet is working slow, then I would suggest you backup your TOUR, reset it (erases all data and sets the phone back to factory condition) and restore the backup which you saved on your computer. This fixes most internet issues. The Blackberry Tour is not the world’s best upgrade for Blackberry Curve.

The Blackberry Curve was coming from a Blackberry Pearl so it seemed like the sibling everyone wanted to engage with. The blackberry tour is the step-child in the same RIM family. I know my ideas sound slightly insane but I’m trying to explain this to you. Am I happy with my Blackberry Tour? I most definitely am but when I first got this phone and coughed up the full price of it, my phone didn’t work in a foreign location, this was because the phone doesn’t come unlocked but SPRINT has fixed this issue and all blackberry tours being sold now are UNLOCKED and ready for international use.

If you have an 8830, you must be dying to change that phone unless you don’t care much for cameras.

A new 8530 will be here in a few days. The Tour lacks wifi but I don’t care for Wi-Fi because the EV is express speed and rather fast. Surfing a webpage on the blackberry tour was wayyy better than the blackberry curve. Especially caue you can view the page in whatever format you want (full page or blackberry customized) .. It comes with some good sample wallpapers and you can download more from Blackberry App World.

It might just be arguably the best phone out there. Call quality is still very good and the charging port isn’t easily destructible.

Suggestion - BUY THE OEM BLACKBERRY SKINS for about $20 cause they’re worth it. The phone looks smashing then.

Should you upgrade from the Blackberry Curve and extend your contract? I did anyway and am more than satisfied because the Curve taught me how to truly use a blackberry.

4 Stars Best Blackberry on the market
The Blackberry Tour is a good phone, and might be the most consumer-friendly Blackberry to date.

As usual, the Tour features a great QWERTY keyboard. The best Blackberry keyboard I’ve used, but not quite as nice as a horizontal slider - but it can be easily used with one or two hands. Blackberry has a powerful suite of messaging applications, but they, along with Blackberry OS as a whole, are starting to get dated. Where is my threaded messaging, RIM? I do love the combined messages inbox, but seriously, threading is sorely missed. The screen is bright and sharp. Internet browsing is fairly fast, and better than old Blackberry phones, but not quite webkit-level.

The new Blackberry App World is a nice touch, but has a low count of applications to date. However, despite the small number, they are generally good quality. The App World itself is mediocore - slow, not all that intuitive compared to competing app stores. Definitely a good starting point though, and there are a ton of third-party applications out there for Blackberry not in the App World yet. The Sprint version came bundled with SprintTV and NFL applications, which worked great on the Tour, along with Sprint Navigation. GPS connected quickly and held a signal well.

The phone multitasks, but not as smoothly as some other phones. There is no way to manually close applications, and they don’t always interact well - for example, on the Palm Pre, if you’re listening to music with Pandora and using Sprint Navigation, Pandora will play full volume until there is a voice prompt, where it seemlessly dims the Pandora volume. Doesn’t work nearly as well on the Tour.

I did have some issues with speed and stability. The phone crashed every now and then, requiring a hard reset - which takes a very long time. While generally the phone is very snappy, sometimes it randomly takes several seconds to load or switch applications.

All in all, the Tour is a great phone for both business and casual users. Hopefully, update to the operating system can move it into a more modern system with other phones.

Buy/More Info

BlackBerry Tour 9630 Phone Black Sprint

Posted by Smartphone Review on March 8, 2010

BlackBerry Tour 9630 Phone Black Sprint

The feature-packed and highly refined BlackBerry Tour 9630 world phone for Sprint keeps you connected and lets you roam the globe in style. In addition to accessing the reliable and fast Verizon Wireless voice and data network, the Tour is also compatible with 3G-enabled GSM networks outside the United States, giving you the option to make phone calls in over 185 countries and to access email and Internet in any of the nearly 150 countries where Sprint provides data roaming services.

Roam where you want to with the BlackBerry Tour 3G world phone, which provides the option to make phone calls in over 185 countries and to access email/Internet in nearly 150 countries where Sprint Wireless provides data roaming services (see larger image).

Ideally suited for those who want to stay socially connected, the Tour 9630 lets you share pictures and videos via MMS and instant message on popular IM services or BlackBerry Messenger. It also offers easy access to your favorite social networking sites like Flickr, MySpace and Facebook.

In addition to fast 3G speeds from Sprint’s Wi’s high-speed 3G network, you’ll enjoy GPS navigation capabilities for accessing the optional Sprint Navigation turn-by-turn direction service as well as access to Sprint TV’s video-on-demand with full-motion video and vivid sound. And the Tour comes packed with all the communication and professional functionality you expect from a BlackBerry device, including a push-based mobile solution for email and access to Microsoft Office files.

The BlackBerry Tour includes a large, highly tactile, full-QWERTY keyboard and a large 2.4-inch display with one of the highest resolutions available yet on a BlackBerry device. Other features include a 3.2-megapixel camera/camcorder with geo-tagging capabilities, Bluetooth connectivity for handsfree devices and stereo music streaming, MicroSD memory expansion (a 1 GB card is included), support for BlackBerry App World, and up to 5 hours of talk time.

Sprint Services
The BlackBerry Tour operates domestically on the Sprint 3G network, and globally on 2100 MHz UMTS/HSPA and quad-band GSM/EDGE/GPRS networks (850/900/1800/1900 MHz) where Sprint has international roaming agreements. With the Tour, Sprint customers have the power to make or receive phone calls in more than 185 countries and access BlackBerry data services including email and Web browsing in nearly 150 countries.

Stay connected with a push-based mobile solution for e-mail, messaging (IM, SMS, MMS), and social networking.

Sprint’s Worldwide BlackBerry plan gives customers unlimited BlackBerry email and Web access in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and other locations using CDMA technology, and with GSM/GPRS carriers abroad where Sprint has applicable roaming agreements. The plan is available for $69.99 per month, or just $40 per month (excluding taxes and surcharges) as an attachable to Simply Everything, Everything Data, Everything Data Family or Business Essentials with Messaging and Data.

Supporting the EV-DO high-speed data standard on Sprint’s U.S. network, this phone enables you to download and stream high-quality video, straight onto your phone. Where coverage is available, EV-DO connectivity provides average download speeds ranging from 400 to 700 Kbps, with peak rates up to 2 Mbps. With Sprint TV, you can make your cell phone your always-on source for news, weather, sports and more. This comprehensive video service combines high-quality streaming audio and video from channels including the NFL Network, ABC, The Weather Channel, Fox Sports, E!, CNN, The Discovery Channel, and more.

The Sprint Music Store enables you to buy, download, and then jam out wherever you are with new songs or old favorites. Offering a growing selection of more than 1.6 million songs, the store provides you two copies of each song–one for the phone and another for the PC, as well as the ability to burn songs to a CD using Windows Media Player. Save your songs to a memory card with a capacity that’s right for you. You also get several streaming-radio applications, including Sprint Radio with more than 150 channels.

This GPS-enabled phone provides optional access to Sprint Navigation for driving directions on your mobile phone–by voice and onscreen. Along the way, turn-by-turn directions will be announced in a clear voice and displayed on your phone. For example, Sprint Navigation will say, “Go 1.2 miles and turn right on Elm Street.” As you approach the turn, you will hear, “Turn right on Elm Street.” Sprint Navigation also provides proactive traffic alerts with one click re-routing. And it’s easy to find restaurants, banks, cafes, hotels and more from over 10 million points of interest across the U.S.

Other features include GPS location services, a 3.2-megapixel camera/camcorder with geo-tagging capabilities, Bluetooth stereo music streaming, MicroSD expansion (with included 1 GB card).

Stay Sporty with Sprint
With NASCAR Sprint Cup Mobile, instantly connect to the NASCAR information you want, when you want it. Follow NASCAR action from practice to race day with real-time leaderboard and alerts. Get exclusive access to your favorite NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver with real-time driver stats, breaking news and more. Live in-car audio, race radio, NASCAR on SPEED and other audio/video only available on select phones. Visit sprint.com/speed for details.

To access, just text “NASCAR” to 7777 on your Sprint phone or visit the Sprint Digital Lounge to download NASCAR Sprint Cup Mobile (standard text messaging and data rates apply).

This phone also provides access to NFL Mobile Live–your all-access pass to the NFL from DRAFT to Super Bowl. Stay on top of every game with real-time red zone alerts, game center scores, stats, and more. Manage your fantasy football team like a pro with up-to-the-minute insights, analysis, stats and alerts. Access by texting “NFL” to 7777 on the handset to download NFL Mobile Live from Sprint Digital Lounge (standard text messaging and data rates apply).

Phone Features
The BlackBerry Tour 9630 features a chic black finish with chrome highlights surrounding its sleek design and a bright 2.4-inch display that delivers the highest resolution available on a BlackBerry smartphone (480 x 360 resolution at 245 ppi)–presenting pictures, web pages and videos with incredible clarity. The Tour includes a trackball navigation system located on the top of the QWERTY keypad with finely sculpted keys for fast and precise typing. It also features an integrated spell checker with a customizable dictionary to help maintain accuracy while on the go.

It offers premium phone features including voice activated dialing, enhanced background noise cancellation, and a low-distortion speakerphone. This phone also provides Bluetooth wireless connectivity (version 2.0), and includes profiles for communication headset, handsfree car kits, and file transfer. With the A2DP Bluetooth profile, you can stream your music to a pair of compatible Bluetooth stereo headphones. You can connect your laptop (either via Bluetooth or wired USB) and enjoy dial-up networking–surf the Internet, send email, and access files from a server (additional charges or subscription applicable).

With BlackBerry push technology, you don’t need to retrieve your e-mail. BlackBerry devices are designed to remain on and continuously connected to the wireless network, allowing you to be discreetly notified as new e-mail arrives. Support is also built-in for viewing e-mail attachments (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, WordPerfect, and PDF formats).

With the BlackBerry Internet Service, you’ll be able to easily access up to 10 supported personal and work email accounts, send and receive text and instant messages, and connect on popular social networking sites with friends, family and co-workers. It’s also compatible with BlackBerry Enterprise Server, which provides advanced security and IT administration features within IBM Lotus Domino, Microsoft Exchange and Novell GroupWise environments.

In addition to the industry’s leading mobile email and messaging solution, the Tour supports text (SMS), picture (MMS) and instant messaging (IM) on today’s most popular platforms as well as social networking sites. Take your social life on-the-go with Facebook for BlackBerry and Flickr Photo Uploader for BlackBerry application. A Mobile IM feature provides access to Google Talk, MSN, Yahoo!, Windows Live, and AIM instant messaging services.

The media player can play movies smoothly in full-screen mode, display pictures and slideshows quickly and manage an entire music and video collection, and with BlackBerry Media Sync you can quickly and easily sync music from iTunes and Windows Media Player with the smartphone. The Tour comes with a 256 MB flash memory (and 256 MB of RAM), and the device is expandable via MicroSD/SDHC memory cards up to 16 GB in size (a 1 GB card is included with the Tour).

Other features include:

• 3.2-megapixel camera with auto-focus, image stabilization, 2x digital zoom, geo-tagging capabilities, and video capture
• Support for BlackBerry App World, featuring a broad and growing catalog of third-party mobile applications developed specifically for BlackBerry smartphones. Categories include travel, productivity, entertainment, games, social networking and sharing, news and weather, and more.
• Voice Activated Dialing: The built-in speaker independent voice command lets you use your voice to look up contacts, place phone calls and get key information from your device.
• Preloaded DataViz Documents to Go, allowing you to edit Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint files directly on the handset.
• BlackBerry 4.7 Desktop Software with integrated email, phone, SMS, browser, calendar, address book, and additional organizer applications
• English, French and Spanish language support
• Ring Tones: 32 Polyphonic + vibrate (MIDI, MP3)
• Password protection and keyboard lock
• 3.5mm stereo headset jack
• Video format support: MPEG4 H.263, MPEG4 Part 2 Simple Profile, H.264 (encoding and decoding 30fps), WMV
• Audio format support: MP3, AAC, AAC+, eAAC+, WMA, WMA ProPlus
• Hearing Aid Compatibility = M3

Vital Statistics
The BlackBerry Tour 9630 weighs 4.58 ounces and measures 4.4 x 2.4 x 0.6 inches. Its 1400 mAh lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 5 hours of talk time, and up to 336 hours (14 days) of standby time. It runs on the 800/1900 MHz CDMA frequencies and is compatible with the EV-DO 3G data network when on the Sprint network in the US; in international territories, it’s compatible with 850/900/1800/1900 MHz GSM/GPRS/EDGE networks as well as 2100 MHz 3G (UMTS) networks.

User Ratings and Reviews

2 Stars Very disappointed
After witnessing the near addiction Blackberry owners seem to have with their thumbs feverishly flying all over the keyboard in near ecstasy, it seemed like maybe it was time to see what all the enthusiasm was about. I travel internationally every week so the tour seemed like a no-brainer. For a few days it seemed I had joined the zombie army also and couldn’t put it down. After having it a few months to make a level headed assessment now I can pass on my accurate impressions and sorry to say they aren’t very positive. On the plus side, the “push” technology is welcome. While this feature is especially ideal for the business user which comprises the core of Blackberry users, it holds great appeal to the e-mail addicted among us who like to feel like the newscasters who receive a paper from off camera and then solemnly say, “this just in”. Like most smartphones, having the icons on screen waiting to be easily accessed is convenient and there are a fair number of simple apps available at modest cost. The negatives are many and serious. Most irksome is the processor itself and the fact that the unit is painfully slow. It takes forever to boot; if it is receiving a message or downloading something in the background i.e. news or weather, it is completely unresponsive to commands. Second is the abysmal functioning of the trackball. It constantly gets stuck or moves with no result. Exasperating. The battery time is ridiculously short. Depending on usage it may not even last an entire day. You simply must have a second fully charged battery at the ready to swap out and then wait for the sloooow boot up again. Although the keyboard is supposed to be improved, I still find myself constantly mis-hitting. The tour 2 is making a debut and is said to address some of these and other issues. In fairness, I have talked to people who love their Tour. But if I could do it over again I would not make this purchase and discourage like minded users to avoid it.

4 Stars First time BlackBerry user
I heard many friends describe how they are addicted to their BlackBerry. A few months ago I decided to see what the hype was all about. I was pleasantly surprised to find out that this phone lives up to the hype and then some.

PROS

1) Big, clear screen

2) Push email

3) Built in CDMA and GSM radios (great for international use)

4) BlackBerry messenger and BlackBerry App World

5) GPS with Google Maps

6) Fairly good camera

7) Good call quality and battery life

CONS

1) Takes forever to boot up

2) Sometimes gets sluggish

3) Text messaging system is antiquated (needs iPhone-like threaded messages)

Overall this is a great phone. It allowed me to sync all my social outlooks (email, IM, facebook, etc) to the phone seamlessly. The BB browser, although not great, does an decent job at rendering web pages. I’ve heard some people complain about the trackball wearing out, so far I have seen no signs of this on my phone. If you want a complete smartphone, you would be hard pressed to find a better one than the Tour. I have become a Crackberry addict.

4 Stars Shall we dance?
Blackberry Tour is my new phone. It replaced my not so old Blackberry Curve from Sprint. So far, Sprint is offering it in just one colour but I don’t see to many people complaining about it. This is slightly more pleasing in terms of looks and design. Anyone who hasn’t had this phone and is considering buying it, would usually give in just by the looks of it. The graphics are a substantial improvement from the quite good Blackberry curve display. I won’t go into boring specifications such as pixels and resolution but yeah the resolution is improved as one would notice while surfing the internet.

Now, let us talk about the major features of the phone. Everyone is wondering, what is different about the Blackberry Tour and the Blackberry Curve? In simple words, the tour has a better camera, different keys, no trackball ring, brighter display and new interface, a SIM card slot so you can use the phone in places outside of USA when you don’t wish to use Sprint’s global service.

Where the Blackberry has improved -

1. The memory stick can be removed without taking the battery out and switching the phone off.

2. The speaker is louder than before and if you try using Pandora, it is I dare say, flawless at 65% volume for a living room. The playlist is slightly better looking and doesn’t look like an 8bit arcade game anymore.

3. When you’re going through your files, the browsing is slightly faster and you won’t need to wait minutes while going through your pictures. Also the camera is a 3.2 MEGAPIXEL and in simple terms, the camera is WAY BETTER than the blackberry curve. The blackberry curve gave grainy photographs and the pixels seems to be all over the place. The tour’s camera takes better pictures in the dark and there is not a very big lag between when you press the click button and the picture is captured. The best camera on any Sprint phone would be the Palm Pre’s camera but we’re not discussing that phone.

4. The charger is now the other side of the phone and this headphone jack doesn’t always accept all earphones despite being 3.5 mm. No more standard USB jacks - the new Blackberry uses mini usb and rightfully so.

5. Even on 10% brightness, the TOUR seems more vibrant and colour conscious.

6. A lot of people moan and whine about the trackball on this phone but its way better than the Curve!

Where the Blackberry Curve is missed -

The keypad on the blackberry tour may appear better but I could fly on the blackberry curve without making any errors. This was mainly because there was a slight gap between the keys, that gap is missing on the Tour…The tour’s keys don’t allow for the easiest typing experience and though I’m fast on it, I really think the Blackberry Curve keys were flawless. The Tour sometimes heats up, it is very moody that way.

The blackberry curve has a great battery life. The Tour will last you for about a day. Enough said about battery.

I would advise everyone to backup all your data. If for whatever reason your internet is working slow, then I would suggest you backup your TOUR, reset it (erases all data and sets the phone back to factory condition) and restore the backup which you saved on your computer. This fixes most internet issues. The Blackberry Tour is not the world’s best upgrade for Blackberry Curve.

The Blackberry Curve was coming from a Blackberry Pearl so it seemed like the sibling everyone wanted to engage with. The blackberry tour is the step-child in the same RIM family. I know my ideas sound slightly insane but I’m trying to explain this to you. Am I happy with my Blackberry Tour? I most definitely am but when I first got this phone and coughed up the full price of it, my phone didn’t work in a foreign location, this was because the phone doesn’t come unlocked but SPRINT has fixed this issue and all blackberry tours being sold now are UNLOCKED and ready for international use.

If you have an 8830, you must be dying to change that phone unless you don’t care much for cameras.

A new 8530 will be here in a few days. The Tour lacks wifi but I don’t care for Wi-Fi because the EV is express speed and rather fast. Surfing a webpage on the blackberry tour was wayyy better than the blackberry curve. Especially caue you can view the page in whatever format you want (full page or blackberry customized) .. It comes with some good sample wallpapers and you can download more from Blackberry App World.

It might just be arguably the best phone out there. Call quality is still very good and the charging port isn’t easily destructible.

Suggestion - BUY THE OEM BLACKBERRY SKINS for about $20 cause they’re worth it. The phone looks smashing then.

Should you upgrade from the Blackberry Curve and extend your contract? I did anyway and am more than satisfied because the Curve taught me how to truly use a blackberry.

3 Stars its a good phone
i think its a good phone and network and i would recommend to other pple.

4 Stars Best Blackberry on the market
The Blackberry Tour is a good phone, and might be the most consumer-friendly Blackberry to date.

As usual, the Tour features a great QWERTY keyboard. The best Blackberry keyboard I’ve used, but not quite as nice as a horizontal slider - but it can be easily used with one or two hands. Blackberry has a powerful suite of messaging applications, but they, along with Blackberry OS as a whole, are starting to get dated. Where is my threaded messaging, RIM? I do love the combined messages inbox, but seriously, threading is sorely missed. The screen is bright and sharp. Internet browsing is fairly fast, and better than old Blackberry phones, but not quite webkit-level.

The new Blackberry App World is a nice touch, but has a low count of applications to date. However, despite the small number, they are generally good quality. The App World itself is mediocore - slow, not all that intuitive compared to competing app stores. Definitely a good starting point though, and there are a ton of third-party applications out there for Blackberry not in the App World yet. The Sprint version came bundled with SprintTV and NFL applications, which worked great on the Tour, along with Sprint Navigation. GPS connected quickly and held a signal well.

The phone multitasks, but not as smoothly as some other phones. There is no way to manually close applications, and they don’t always interact well - for example, on the Palm Pre, if you’re listening to music with Pandora and using Sprint Navigation, Pandora will play full volume until there is a voice prompt, where it seemlessly dims the Pandora volume. Doesn’t work nearly as well on the Tour.

I did have some issues with speed and stability. The phone crashed every now and then, requiring a hard reset - which takes a very long time. While generally the phone is very snappy, sometimes it randomly takes several seconds to load or switch applications.

All in all, the Tour is a great phone for both business and casual users. Hopefully, update to the operating system can move it into a more modern system with other phones.

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HTC DROID Eris Android Phone Verizon Wireless

Posted by Smartphone Review on March 7, 2010

HTC DROID Eris Android Phone Verizon Wireless

Combining performance and functionality in one sleek package, the ultra-slim HTC DROID ERIS brings the power of the Android platform and the fast, reliable Verizon Wireless network together. Powered by the open-source Android operating system, it offers an intuitive interface with an easily customizable home screen and the ability to personalize it with a wide selection of free and paid downloadable apps via the Android Market. It also includes HTC Sense, a user interface overlay from HTC that makes it easy for you to create an individualized mobile experience tailored specifically to your needs.

The 3G-enabled HTC DROID ERIS runs on the fast, reliable Verizon Wireless network and is powered by the customizable Android platform, with 1000s of apps available to on the Android Market.

Customizable apps.

The 3.2-inch touchscreen interface features zoom capability and a virtual QWERTY keyboard, and it’s paired with a trackball for easy navigation. In addition to 3G connectivity, the HTC DROID ERIS offers Wi-Fi networking (802.11b/g) for accessing home and business networks as well as hotspots while on the go and Bluetooth connectivity for both hands-free devices and stereo music streaming. It also offers integrated GPS for navigation using Google Maps and other location services, as well as a digital compass with a sensor that enables the phone to know what direction it is facing.

With integrated Google technology, the HTC DROID ERIS brings one-touch access to the popular Google mobile services millions use every day, including Google Search by Voice, YouTube and Picasa. The DROID ERIS also provides easy access to both personal and corporate email, calendars, and contacts supported by Exchange Server and Gmail. Other features include a 5-megapixel auto focus camera with video capture capabilities, memory expansion via microSD memory cards (an 8 GB card is included with the device), threaded text and picture messaging for seamless on-the-go conversations, Visual Voicemail capabilities, 3.5mm headset jack, and up to 3.5 hours of talk time.

The HTC DROID ERIS comes pre-loaded with a variety of Google and Verizon Wireless mobile services, including:

• Google Maps: Get turn-by-turn directions and instantly view maps and satellite imagery, as well as find local business. And Google Maps Street View enables you to explore cities at street-level virtually while on the go.
• Gmail: Multiple accounts support and undo for common operations.
• YouTube: One-touch recording and playback from home screen widget or app, one-touch sharing with friends, and the ability to view your own uploaded videos and high-resolution videos.
• Google Talk: Easily switch between chats, search your chat history, and preview pictures and videos sent by links.
• Android Market: Browse and download applications created by third-party developers.
• Calendar: Ability to see who has R.S.V.P.’d to your meeting invitations.
• Amazon MP3 Store: Download the latest tracks over the air.
• Verizon Wireless Visual Voice Mail: Delete, reply and forward voice mail messages without having to listen to prior messages or voice instructions.

Key Features

• Fast 3G connectivity thanks to the reliable Verizon Wireless EV–DO, Rev A network
• Powered by the Android 1.5 operating system with deep integration of Google services and access to thousands of apps to customize your phone via the Android Market.
• HTC Scene overlay: Create and switch between Scenes that reflect different moments in your life, helping you design your perfect weekend, travel or pure play phone.
• 3.2-inch touchscreen with virtual QWERTY keyboard (320 x 480 HVGA resolution; 262K color depth)
• 5-megapixel camera with auto–focus and video capture
• Wi-Fi networking (802.11b/g) for accessing home and corporate networks as well as hotspots while on the go.
• Bluetooth connectivity (version 2.1) includes profiles for communication headset, hands-free car kits, and the A2DP Bluetooth profile–enabling you to wirelessly stream your music to a pair of compatible Bluetooth stereo headphones or speaker dock.
• Memory expansion via microSD card slot with support for optional cards up to 16 GB (8 GB card included).
• Multi-format digital audio player with dedicated Amazon MP3 Store app for over-the-air downloads. Includes compatibility with MP3, AAC, AAC+, eAAC+, and WMA formats and the capability to create and manage playlists on the phone.
• Real HTML Web browsing provides more pages and better Web content delivered efficiently to your phone; supports Flash Lite 3.7.1.
• Standard voice mail and compatibility with Verizon Visual Voice Mail (subscription required), which enables you to delete, reply and forward voice mail messages without having to listen to prior messages or voice instructions. Features include on-screen access to voice mail message status, save up to 40 messages for 40 days (or archive permanently), create up to 10 different caller ID-based greetings, and reply via call back, text or even voice mail.
• Text, Picture and Video messaging with threaded messaging feature
• Organizer tools including calendar, tasks, alarm, notes, stopwatch
• Airplane mode allows you to listen to music while the cellular connectivity is turned off
• Integrated Google, Exchange and Facebook contacts
• Speakerphone
• 3.5mm headset jack
• TTY compatible
• Hearing Aid Compatibility = M3/T3
• Memory: ROM: 512 MB; RAM: 256 MB

Vital Statistics
The HTC DROID ERIS weighs 4.23 ounces and measures 4.45 x 2.19 x 0.51 inches. Its lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 3.5 hours (214 minutes) of talk time, and up to 373 hours (15.5 days) of standby time. It runs on the CDMA 800/1900 frequencies as well as EV–DO, Rev A 3G frequencies.

What’s in the Box
HTC DROID ERIS handset, rechargeable battery, wall/USB charger, 8 GB microSD memory card, quick start guide, user manual

User Ratings and Reviews

5 Stars I love my phone
After a few weeks of using the Droid Eris, I can only gush about what a great experience using this phone is. The form factor is, in my opinion, much prettier than it’s big brother Droid, and the HTC’s Sense UI is a cinch to get the hang of (and beautiful as well). The apps for Android are many and useful. I opted to buy the Seidio Innocell 1750 mAh Battery for HTC Droid Eris after using the standard Eris battery and coming to the conclusion many others have, the stock battery sucks. But, with the price of this phone being so low, paying $49.99 for a new battery (and another $23 for the Seidio Innocase II Surface Case for HTC Droid Eris (Blue), AWESOME case), I am in LOVE. I was thinking of switching to AT&T for the iPhone, but I am so happy with my Eris and what it’s capable of that I haven’t looked back.

4 Stars Splendid phone for the price
This is one great little phone for the money. I just bought it a couple days ago for 80 bucks (after rebate). So far so good.

This has been my first exposure to Andriod, and so far I love it. Especially with HTC’s sense UI…Phew! Transitions are mostly smooth, and I don’t find the phone to lag unless I’m transitioning from heavier-weight apps (for instance, from a game to the home screen will sometimes lag a second or two).

Pros:

*Android

*Touch-Screen

*Android Market. Seriously, this has almost ruined my productivity and efficiency. A lot of time can be spent just browsing and downloading very cool apps. This is a wonderfully fun pass-time.

Cons:

*No update for Android 2 (yet!…I’ve seen pages on the web saying that HTC is going to release one soon, though)

*No physical keyboard. This isn’t a big deal for me, but at least give it some thought as a virtual keyboard isn’t for everybody

*Battery life. This one I’m not used to. Coming off of a full charge, my phone will not last me more than one day. Compared to other phones (albeit, they weren’t full featured phones), this performance is pretty poor. Within approx. one hour, the charge will drop from 100% to 80%, and then, after that, discharge more slowly ~10% per hour. All in all, I would estimate that I get around ~8-9 hrs total battery life out of a full charge. This is what brings it down to a four-star. If the battery lasted longer, I would give this phone five stars, hands down.

Bottom line:

If this phone was lost or stolen, I would definitely want another one. This is such an upgrade from my previous phone experience, though, that I may not be entirely objective. But for anybody just wanting a fun phone, BUY THIS one! You can’t get much better for the price.

4 Stars Very Good Phone, almost…Great
The Good:

-8 GB SD Card

-Screen Resolution

-Customizable screens

-Numerous(useful, useless, and pointless) free apps

-Lightweight

-Music Player

-Touchscreen keyboard has a minimal learning curve, very easy to use

-Vertical or horizontal screen

Could be better:

-Camera, don’t let the 5.0 megapixel fool you, it takes decent pictures but not as good as the Moto Droid or Samsung Omnia which are similar phones with 5 MP cameras

The Bad:

-Because it cannot be said enough, the battery. Absolutely awful.

-Flash Player or lack thereof, difficult time with YouTube videos and the YouTube app(which is pre-installed) doesn’t play vids at all and I have seen MULTIPLE complaints on YouTube’s help forum about this same issue with no resolution

Overall:

I am happy with the phone, there are a few nuisances that perhaps the 2.1 upgrade will fix when it becomes available. For the price, you can’t beat it.

3 Stars half-baked
This phone has a lot of promise. The Android operating system gives you tight integration with Google Voice (which can automatically make your international calls for you for pennies per minute) and Google Mail. Using “Mytracks” with the GPS is fun and useful. And, well, it’s cool having internet in your pocket. But:

- every time I booted the phone, Google Voice would crash.

- the HTC input program, that lets you type text into the phone, would crash in the middle of emails and not let my type until I rebooted.

- many of my conversations were badly muffled. I googled this and followed instructions on switching to “EVRC-B” form “EVRC” (these are algorithms used to encode voices). The quality improved, but people have reported not being able to make calls from some parts of the country after making this switch. Without it, the quality was patchy for me (Boston area). I didn’t want to have to play with internal network settings to get the phone to work.

- The phone dropped calls, giving a “Signal Faded” message. I checked with Verizon, and this wasn’t recorded by the network as a dropped call - therefore it was the phone. I never had this problem with my cheap flip phone.

- I couldn’t play Youtube videos through the Youtube player.

- the phone was laggy. This means you’re typing and letters aren’t appearing, then appear all at once. Or it means that you’re looking through your call history to make a call, press on a number, and call the wrong number because it took 5 seconds to update the list display.

- with moderate usage the battery lasts about 6 hours. This is usually fine if you’re between office, home and car chargers, but sometimes it’s not enough. I was always turning parts of the phone off to save battery life.

- video quality is poor, particularly the sound, compared to an iPhone (which admittedly is more expensive).

In short, you get what you pay for. This phone is really cheap - but the savings are small compared to the cost of a 2-year plan, and I’d recommend getting the best phone you can to take advantage of the investment that plan represents.

5 Stars Only problem is the battery life . .
and that can be solved by either using a free aplication killer app, getting a better battery (they have a high performance battery on sale at Amazon, and my personal favorite getting a docking port that charges the battery in the phone plus a spare. And you can of course just not dowload a hundred applicatins that looked really cool, but you’re never going to use after you played with them for a while.

And you can’t beat the price!

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