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The BlackBerry Curve 8900 combines all of your favorite features, and then some, into a stylish device that keeps you connected anywhere. The phone supports WiFi so you can make unlimited nationwide calls using a home wireless router. When you leave the hotspots range the phone automatically switches to the cellular network while you talk.
Because it’s a BlackBerry, you get great connectivity and data sharing. You can synchronize your phone with your computer's Outlook database for a unified calendar. A full QWERTY keyboard makes email, messaging and web-surfing easier.
This BlackBerry isn't just for business. A GPS receiver is built in so you can find your way to that B&B by the beach. Stereo Bluetooth lets you listen to your mp3 or AAC formatted music without wires. Up to five and a half hours of talk time, or up to fourteen and a half days of standby time for phone calls. It also has a 3.2 MP camera, an enhanced media player, an Organizer, a browser . . . There's more, but why rely on our word for your information?
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- 5
-
- 67%
- 4
-
- 0%
- 3
-
- 33%
- 2
-
- 0%
- 1
-
- 0%
| Product Rating: |
 
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| Total Reviews: |
6 |
great phone - buggy, no support
- Pros: This would be an almost perfect phone/internet device if RIM would support it properly.
- Cons: When connecting the phone to the computer/desktop software for the first time, I got a message that firmware upgrades are available. When I ran the upgrade, I received a message "a fatal error has occurred while upgrading your device's software. Please try again". The phone went dead and could be resurrected only by removing the battery and putting it back in.
I have tried this again several times, but no success. I have also followed the instructions I found on the Internet (apparently lots of people are having the same problem), but no success.
RIM does NOT offer any kind of free support, apparently not even warranty support. You can BUY support on a per-use or on an annual subscription basis, but there is no phone number or email to get free support. I would think that a reproducible error on a brand new product would entitle you to a free fix, as it does for any other company whose products I have ever used, but apparently RIM doesn't deem this necessary.
- Other Thoughts: If RIM thinks that in the current economy they can thrive by forcing people to buy support contracts on brand new products, they are badly mistaken.
Great power - small package
- Pros: Small, lightweight form factor. Fantastic screen resolution and definition. VERY fast EDGE data transfers. Wi-Fi and GPS capabilities. Long battery life. Updated and improved keyboard. Great amount of RAM and CPU cycles.
- Cons: Keyboard is "clacky", with a rather distinct staccato sound; if you're typing quickly, you can have a tendency to sound like a machine gun. Not as bad as the first Curves (83xx), but not as smooth and quiet as the Bold. Lack of 3G data transfer. CPU is underpowered compared to its "big brother". Build quality could be better.
- Other Thoughts: The 8900 is a fantastic update to a great smartphone. I have owned one of these ever since the day they were released on the Rogers network in Canada (I am in the US). When I got it I thought it was the greatest thing since sliced bread. The 8900 has a lot of things going for it. First, its size is similar to that of the original Curve, just a bit slimmer. It fits perfectly in a jeans pocket. The display is amazing, and the data transfer rate across EDGE is fantastic. If you liked the original Curve and your biggest concern is portability, this is the BlackBerry for you. It could be better in a few areas; the plastic battery cover is very cheap-feeling, although it does its job. Some samples have a keyboard which is loose-feeling, while others are just fine. Overall, it's an amazing phone for the person who wants to do a lot in a little package. Power users may want to look to the Bold, but not everyone needs that kind of speed and CPU. Great job, RIM!
| Model | 8900 |
| Form Factor | Bar Phones |
| Compatible Carrier & Service | AT&T, T-Mobile, Rogers, Fido |
| Wi-Fi Support | IEEE802.11b/g |
| GPS Integrated | Yes |
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- 5
-
- 67%
- 4
-
- 0%
- 3
-
- 33%
- 2
-
- 0%
- 1
-
- 0%
| Product Rating: |
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| Total Reviews: |
6 |
- Pros: Had it for about a 2 weeks now and it been working very well for me . I can download some few stuf and i think it a cool cell phone to have
- Cons: Have not found one yet and if i do i will be the 1st to put it out .
Arguably the best QWERTY phone
- Pros: The crystal clear screen and speed switching between applications make this phone much better than it's predecessor (the Curve 83xx). For the amount of technology incorporated into this phone the size and weight are both outstanding. Software support for this, like other BB Curves is great. Pandora internet radio, myspace, facebook, google mobile, and other apps run flawlessy and much quicker than other phones I've used 'em on. The new camera has autofocus that works great and takes wonderful pictures; I leave my digital camera at home 90% of the time now.
- Cons: The new placement of the phone charger input on the right side is a bit irritating if you want to type with your right hand while charging the phone. I'm ambidextrous so this minor annoyance does not affect me, but I imagine it's frustrating for some.
- Other Thoughts: There are no additional features I want in a phone; and the speed of this 8900 is fast enough to suit me fine. I am finally NOT looking for an upgrade. Hopefully RIM continues this great line of phones.
Yes and No
- Pros: Great looking screen resolution. Keys are well spaced and easy to type on. Solid voice quality though a little echoey. Wi-Fi. Ability to download apps. App for opening Word and Office compatable documents. Instant message apps built in. Good battery duration. Light weight for its size.
- Cons: Build quality seems suspect. Screen in easy to scratch. Ify overall build quality and feel. Trackball navigation not as responsive or as easy to use as "standard" navigation wheels. No 3G. No threaded messaging. Menu look and selection process seems outdated. Menu navigation is complex especially when trying to type messages.
- Other Thoughts: The Curve 8900 is a solid phone though it could use some refining. The UI is not lacking of menu items but the impemetation is a little behind other OS. The list view submenus is very un-modern. The screen is very crisp and quite nice with great colors and saturation. Though the actual screen itself is very easily scratched. The phone has a very plasticky feel. Overall the build quality feel is lacking. This phone sounds very good when making calls. Messeging can be a hassle and a as there are no grouping or threaded messages but has spacious keyboard. The trackball takes some getting used too. Though I really wish it had a "standard" navigation "wheel." Overall a solid phone with good features but not one I would recommend. This phone is more corporate oriented than consumer oriented.
| Model |
| Brand |
BlackBerry |
| Series |
Curve |
| Model |
8900 |
| Color |
Black |
| Form Factor |
Bar Phones |
| Connectivity |
| Wireless Radio |
GSM 850/900/1800/1900 MHz |
| Compatible Carrier & Service |
AT&T, T-Mobile, Rogers, Fido |
| Wi-Fi Support |
IEEE802.11b/g |
| Data transfer |
GPRS, EDGE, Wi-Fi |
| Function |
| GPS Integrated |
Assisted and autonomous GPS enabled
BlackBerry Maps |
| Audio |
Ringtones: .3gp, WAV, MIDI, AMR-NB, G711u/A, GSM610, PCM, MP3, AAC/AAC+/eAAC+, WMA9/10 Standard/Pro
Audio Format Support: .3gp, WAV, MIDI, AMR-NB, G711u/A, GSM610, PCM, MP3, AAC/AAC+/eAAC+, WMA9/10 Standard/Pro |
| Message |
SMS, MMS, Instant Messaging |
| Email |
Works with BlackBerry Enterprise Server for Microsoft Exchange
Works with BlackBerry Enterprise Server for IBM Lotus Domino
Works with BlackBerry Enterprise Server for Novell GroupWise
Integrates with an existing enterprise email account
Attachment Viewing |
| Additional Function |
Wi-Fi/GPS/Music |
| System |
| Operating System |
BlackBerry OS |
| Processor |
| Processor |
512 MHz processor |
| Memory |
| Internal Memory |
256 MB ROM |
| Card Slot |
MicroSD(TF Card) |
| Card Capacity Support |
Up to 16GB |
| Display |
| Main Display Size |
2.44" |
| Main Display Color |
65K |
| Main Display Format |
TFT |
| Main Display Resolution |
360 x 480 |
| Keyboard |
| Qwerty Keyboard |
Yes |
| Camera |
| Camera |
3.2 MP with Image stabilization, LED flash, Video Capture |
| Camera Zoom |
2X |
| Auto Focus |
Yes |
| I/O Interface |
| Bluetooth Support |
Bluetooth v2.0 with A2DP & EDR |
| Expansion |
microUSB |
| Battery |
| Battery Type |
Lithium Ion Battery |
| Battery Capacity |
1400mAh |
| Talk Time |
5.5 hours |
| Standby Time |
356 hours |
| Software |
| Software |
Media Player, Organizer, Browser |
| Spec |
| Specifications |
Trackball located on front face of device, ESC key to the right, Menu to the left
Dedicated Keys: Send, End, Mute, Lock, VAD (user customizable), 2-stage camera (user customizable), 2x volume/zoom
User Interface: Intuitive icons and menus
Integrated speaker and microphone, Hands-free headset capable, Bluetooth headset capable, Integrated Hands-Free Speakerphone
Rating for hearing aids (PDF): M3 (in cellular bands only)
Video Format Support: DivX, XviD (MPEG4 Advance Simple Profile), H.263, WMV3
Password protection
Keyboard lock
Sleep (standby) mode |
| Dimensions & Weight |
| Dimensions |
4.29" x 2.36" x 0.53" |
| Weight |
3.87 oz. |
| Manufacturer Warranty |
| Warranty |
No Manufacturer Warranty Provided
30 day warranty provided by Brainstorm
Service Phone: 1-626-330-0636
Support Email: INFO@BRAINSTORMCO.COM |
Introduction
The BlackBerry Curve 8900 combines all of your favorite features, and then some, into a stylish device that keeps you connected anywhere. The phone supports WiFi so you can make unlimited nationwide calls using a home wireless router. When you leave the hotspots range the phone automatically switches to the cellular network while you talk.
Because it’s a BlackBerry, you get great connectivity and data sharing. You can synchronize your phone with your computer's Outlook database for a unified calendar. A full QWERTY keyboard makes email, messaging and web-surfing easier.
This BlackBerry isn't just for business. A GPS receiver is built in so you can find your way to that B&B by the beach. Stereo Bluetooth lets you listen to your mp3 or AAC formatted music without wires. Up to five and a half hours of talk time, or up to fourteen and a half days of standby time for phone calls. It also has a 3.2 MP camera, an enhanced media player, an Organizer, a browser . . . There's more, but why rely on our word for your information?
Highlights
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Versatile Functionality
The BlackBerry Curve 8900 incorporates daily PIM functions (address book, calendar, to-do lists, etc.) with advanced features such as GPS, wireless email, Internet browser, Instant message programs and an enhanced media player, ideal for both daily and business use. Plus a full QWERTY keyboard is featured for convenient and quick typing.
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High Resolution Display
The BlackBerry Curve 8900 features a large 480 x 360 resolution, 65K color LCD screen to deliver stunning visual effects for videos, photos, messages and webpages.
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3.2-megapixel Camera
A 3.2-megapixel camera is integrated into the BlackBerry Curve 8900 so you can capture your precious moments anytime, anywhere.
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Bluetooth Technology
The BlackBerry Curve 8900 provides hassle-free Bluetooth connections to Bluetooth headsets and car kits.
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Wi-Fi Support
With the Wi-Fi-capable BlackBerry Curve 8900, easily access the Internet for data and voice services via virtually any accessible Wi-Fi network.
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Quad-band International Phone
The BlackBerry Curve 8900 is compatible with four types of GSM frequencies – 850 MHz, 900 MHz, 1800 MHz and 1900 MHz. Whether you make phone calls in the US or anywhere else, the quad-band capability ensures you to make phone calls all the time in local mobile phone networks.
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Quick Specs
| Brand | BlackBerry |
| Form Factor | Bar Phones |
| Wireless Radio | GSM 850/900/1800/1900 MHz |
| Wi-Fi Support | IEEE802.11b/g |
| Main Display Size | 2.4" |
| Main Display Resolution | 360 x 480 |
| Main Display Color | 65K |
| Bluetooth Support | Yes |
| Camera | 3.2 MP |
| Additional Function | Wi-Fi/GPS/Music |
| GPS Integrated | Yes |
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Reviewed By: msof on 2/27/2009
Tech Level: high - Ownership: 1 week to 1 month
