RIM has finally given the official nod to the first clamshell BlackBerry, the Pearl Flip 8220. Known previously on gossip sites and on these very pages as the
KickStart, the new cell comes with a stack of neat features that'll impress any low–ranking suit in the City.
Packing in Wi–Fi, a QWERTY 'board, and a 240x320 LCD, Bluetooth 2.0 and BlackBerry Maps, it's without doubt a multimedia powerhouse. Sadly though, this is a 3G free zone, with only EDGE to get you by when you're outside a hotspot.
You can sync up AAC tracks from iTunes though, which at least means you'll be able to ease your sluggish web–based pain with your favourite tracks. You'll be able to store plenty too, as there's support for a massive 16GB SD card. Weighty.
It's due out in 'the fall' according to RIM, with prices and plans to be announced by the networks soon. We'll bring you any news as soon as we sniff it out.
While you wait, check out all the gossip on the next BlackBerrys, the
Javelin and the
Thunder.
Essentials
BlackBerry Pearl Flip 8220
Price: £TBA
On sale: Autumn
Contact: RIM